100+ decry 'political agenda', lack of transparency after Raymond BOE votes to start removing principal

Raymond, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Dozens of families in the Village of Raymond are disappointed after the school board voted Wednesday night, Sept. 27, to issue a preliminary notice of contract non-renewal to Raymond School Principal Jeff Peterson.

His supporters said the board's decision is the latest move in a concerning trend of not being transparent.

The 100-plus supporters who were following along with the meeting went silent when the decision was announced, but they were not stunned.

They told us they were expecting this type of decision from a board they say has inserted politics into the decision-making process.

Peterson addressed supporters shortly after the meeting adjourned, saying, "The motivation to serve Raymond school is because this is the building that inspired me to do what I do for a career and a living, and I have only continued to be motivated to come to work every day because I serve teachers, I serve students."

But that service could be winding down.

Peterson's supporters were quiet as the school board returned from closed session Wednesday night.

Raymond Board of Education President Audrey Kostuch said the decision was made "Based on Jeff's performance as reflected in his personnel file."

Supporters claim Peterson has long been a target of the new board, even though he has vocal support and a track record of success.

His supporters include political conservatives and progressives, all concerned the school board is -in their words- inserting politics into what should be a non-partisan decision making process.

Peterson told them, "This community school should be the best place on earth for our kids as far as I’m concerned, and I will continue to serve in the capacity.”

The developments in recent weeks created a firestorm in Raymond.

Wednesday night’s meeting was originally scheduled to be held in person, but it was switched to virtual because the board said it had received threats.

Before adjourning, the board said Peterson is not fired and his employment will not change right away. But his supporters believe Wednesday's decision has begun that process.

There are still a lot of questions for the school board and the school superintendent.

We'll update this story when we get more information.