David LaPlante has been relieved of his duties as the director of buildings and grounds for Warwick Public Schools following a unanimous vote by the School Committee to terminate his employment with …
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David LaPlante has been relieved of his duties as the director of buildings and grounds for Warwick Public Schools following a unanimous vote by the School Committee to terminate his employment with the district at its meeting Tuesday night.
The matter was discussed in executive session prior to the start of the public meeting, however the 5-0 vote to uphold Superintendent Philip Thornton’s recommendation came in open session.
Earlier this week, Thornton confirmed that LaPlante had been placed on administrative leave with pay.
When asked about the termination, School Committee Chair Jennifer Ahearn wouldn’t comment further, saying it is a personnel matter.
Thornton said the move came as a result of “purchasing irregularities” within the maintenance department. He described the situation as a police matter that is currently under investigation.
In an email response to the Beacon, Police Chief Colonel Stephen McCartney said, “WPD detectives have executed a search warrant on a home as part of a continuing investigation of a person who was a WSD employee.”
A joint statement from McCartney and Mayor Scott Avedisian reads, “The Mayor supports the efforts of both the School Department, as well as the Police Department in this matter. There is still an on-going police investigation and as such, no further comments will be issued at this time. At the conclusion of the investigation, the facts surrounding the termination of Mr. LaPlante will come to light. Until then, we will not comment on or about the results of the search warrant or the items seized. Additionally, no arrest has been made at this point in the investigation.”
Thornton said LaPlante had been employed with the school department for 10 years.
Thornton said he would begin the search to find a replacement by advertising the position on School Spring this month, which would be followed by a full interview process before recommending a candidate for School Committee approval.
In the interim, Thornton said he will work directly with Bob Corrente and Kevin Oliver, who he described as “two leaders in the maintenance department,” until a replacement is found.
Discussion and/or action on a second employee termination hearing, as well as an employee status update on job performance, was scheduled on Tuesday’s agenda for executive session, but Ahearn said both matters were tabled.
4 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
markyc
The Warwick School Committee, in a show of good faith, should provide an informational meeting between themselves, the Mayor & Warwick City Council members, in closed executive session, providing the Mayor/City Council with information on these two school personnel issues & also on the Ragosta report.
Thursday, December 10, 2015 Report this
WWalters
I am so far liking the new Superintendent! He seems like he is kicking ass and taking names. I like that he is getting rid of all of the cronies who have been sucking the money and life out of Warwick Schools for decades. About time that central administration got shook up!
Thursday, December 10, 2015 Report this
Landoffoz
I have heard there are more firings to come. Clean house. I am sure Thornton will start to bring his own people in from his other stops. Dr. Phil never stayed long in any district. Wonder why?
Sunday, December 13, 2015 Report this
Madisonandgail
These people have robbed the children of warwick of $150,000 so far and they find more every day!!! Stove, generator,fridges,fence for the yard. no wonder ALAP and other programs were cut from our children. Who was keeping an eye out. Not the superintendent or school committee.
Sunday, December 13, 2015 Report this