Pasco superintendent orders review of personnel practices, flags tentative March 24 referendum

Superintendent Dr. Lehi told the Pasco County School Board he has asked the district’s legal department to review personnel practices after a recent file review found an individual remained employed in a non‑student‑facing role when, in the superintendent’s judgment, earlier termination would have been appropriate.

"When that happens, it is our responsibility to respond diligently, prudently, and decisively," Dr. Lehi said, describing the personnel‑practice review and saying Tom Neesham from the legal department will lead the effort. He said the review will examine how concerns are investigated, how decisions are made and how standards are applied and that expectations will be communicated and enforced.

Dr. Lehi also gave the board advance notice that county leaders have tentatively scheduled the district’s referendum to appear on the ballot March 24. He said district staff will be prepared to present to county commissioners as needed and warned that state budget timing could affect district budget workshops if the Legislature goes into overtime.

On a separate item, Dr. Lehi explained the district requested and the charter applicant agreed to an extension for School of Hope until May 1 so staff can respond to newly issued State Board of Education rules.

The superintendent framed the personnel review as an early‑term priority to strengthen transparency and safeguard students; he said further steps will follow the review and that staff will continue cooperating with law enforcement when investigations involve criminal matters.