School board chairman vague on reasons for closed session
By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

A Gaffney High classified employee could face disciplinary action in the first of two closed sessions scheduled for today's school board meeting.

The school board will meet in closed session at 7 p.m. for what is listed on the meeting agenda as "executive session - contractual matter" and "executive session - update from legal counsel."

School board chairman Willie Crosby said he was unable to provide any other information on the reason for the closed sessions, calling the issues a "personnel matter."

Board packets provided little detail beyond describing one closed session as "an alleged incident involving a Gaffney High classified employee." Sources have said the issue concerns a Gaffney High assistant principal, who was involved in a recent altercation between two students.

The other closed session was described in the packet as an update from legal counsel Andrea White regarding a claim against the district. White is representing the school district in a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by former maintenance worker Fred Knowles.

The Freedom of Information Act allows public bodies to meet behind closed doors to discuss a contract negotiation, property sale, employment matter, and investiga- tive proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct.

However, the act requires a specific reason be given for going into closed session.

The use of the term "personnel matters" must be followed by a more specific description of the topic such as discussion of employment, compensation, promotion, demotion, disciplinary action or release of an employee.

An "update from legal counsel" must be similarly specific.