Mr. Jonathan Cleaver was the Lehighton Area School District superintendent for nine years. On Dec. 8, 2021, his salary and benefits were terminated by the newly elected and questionably appointed Board of Directors effective Dec. 9. He also has been shut out of the district buildings.

The excuse used was a matter of semantics concerning a contract “extension” instead of “renewal.” This could have easily been fixed by issuing a new contract.

Mr. Cleaver had above average performance reviews, and not paying him is a way to remove him.

I worked as a board member with Mr. Cleaver and he was an honest, personable, caring, ethical man. He was willing to make changes dictated by the board as long as it upheld the duties of his commission.

The new “moral” board will have a hard time finding a replacement for Jonathan Cleaver. Issues regarding employment and vendor contracts over the years have caused several past and present board members to seek revenge for not getting their way. It has been claimed that “the voters have spoken.” Hopefully those who voted will get what they expected. The events of the last few weeks make that seem unlikely.

It was also stated that Mr. Cleaver’s departure “does not affect the staff.” I don’t know how anyone can believe that. I know there will be differing opinions but mine is based on personal experience.

Mr. Cleaver deserves better than this and I have no doubt that he will find it.

Respectfully,

Rita Spinelli

Lehighton