Joseph Shelton Raises Concerns Over District 11 Employee Handbook: “Our Staff Deserve Better”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2025

Joseph Shelton Raises Concerns Over District 11 Employee Handbook:

“Our Staff Deserve Better”

Colorado Springs, CO – Joseph Shelton, candidate for the Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education, is speaking out after reviewing the final version of the District’s Employee Handbook presented to the Board on April 30. Shelton warns that the proposed policies, if approved as written, may significantly undermine staff morale, financial stability, and job security across the district.

“District 11 employees are the backbone of our schools—from teachers to educational support professionals to administrative staff. They deserve a system that supports and protects them, not one that leaves them vulnerable,” Shelton stated.

The proposed handbook contains numerous provisions that have raised alarm among educators and staff, including:

• At-Will Employment: Most employees can be terminated at any time, without cause or notice, jeopardizing job security.

• Punitive Leave Policies: Employees with negative leave balances face paycheck deductions, and additional penalties may apply on designated “Hot Zone Days” when absence is discouraged.

• Limited Vacation and Benefits: Restrictions on vacation carryover, unpaid emergency leave, and donated sick leave access could punish employees for needing time off due to personal or family crises.

• Remote Work Restrictions: Flexibility is limited, with remote work contingent solely on supervisor discretion—potentially harmful in emergencies or for those with health concerns.

• Performance-Based Layoffs: Layoff decisions based on performance evaluations, if not executed fairly and transparently, could result in inequities across departments.

• Opt-Out of FAMLI Program: The District’s choice to opt out of the Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance program may deprive employees of essential income protection during extended medical or family leave.

“These policies reflect a top-down approach that prioritizes administrative convenience over employee well-being,” said Shelton. “We should be building a culture of respect and support, not one of fear, burnout, and uncertainty.”

The handbook also places additional burdens on part-time employees and retirees, limits access to professional development, and introduces vague language around corrective actions and disciplinary steps, creating room for subjective or inconsistent application.

Shelton emphasized that these concerns are not merely procedural—they are personal. “Every policy in that handbook affects real people—people who dedicate their lives to serving our students. If elected, I will push for meaningful revisions to ensure that our employees are treated with the fairness, transparency, and dignity they deserve.”

As the campaign moves forward, Shelton invites D11 staff, educators, and community members to share their concerns and ideas. “I want to be a voice for those who feel unheard. Together, we can shape a district that works for everyone—not just on paper, but in practice.”

For media inquiries or to schedule an interview, contact:

Joseph Shelton for District 11 Board of Education

Email: Joseph@SheltonforD11.com

Phone: 719-290-0440

Website: SheltonforD11.com

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