Robinson Named In Derby

Labor Suit

By John Voket

Newtown’s School Superintendent Janet Robinson is named as a co-defendant in a lawsuit being filed by a Bethany resident, who was reportedly dismissed from his teaching job under Dr Robinson when she served as superintendent for the Derby school system.

The action, which was filed by an attorney on behalf of Steven B. Anderson with the City of Derby in August 2008, names the city as its primary defendant along with Derby’s Board of Education, and the city’s mayor, Tony Staffieri.

According to reports on the complaint, Mr Anderson worked as the Derby school district’s director of technology from May 2005 to June 2007. The plaintiff is alleging that he was terminated because of his age and after he spoke out about problems he saw with the school system.

Dr Robinson said during her tenure in Derby that the employee was terminated from his position, and she understands Mr Anderson is charging he was dismissed on the basis of age discrimination and/or because of a whistleblower issue.

Because the lawsuit is still pending, Dr Robinson reserved any further comment on the matter. At press time, The Bee was awaiting a copy of the complaint. Check for updates on this story at newtownbee.com as they develop.