Association Representation in Disciplinary Cases. It shall be the District’s practice to follow a course of progressive discipline. Progressive discipline shall be as follows: documented verbal warning; written reprimand following a meeting; suspension; termination. Serious offenses may result in an immediate, strong consequence up to and including termination. Prior to any discipline, administration shall investigate and substantiate allegations against the employee. The employee shall be given the opportunity to explain and refute the allegations prior to any decision regarding discipline. An employee shall be entitled to request to have a representative from the Association present during an interview with a school district administrator when the employee has a reasonable belief based upon factual circumstances that disciplinary action against the employee will result from such interview. No administrator shall reprimand or criticize any employee in the presence of the employee's colleagues or students, or in the presence of the parents of such students. When reprimand or criticism is deemed necessary, it shall be made with discretion out of general public view.
