Claims of a hostile work environment are usually aimed at the boss. But Ms. Walker, a teacher in the Harmony Public Schools, was accused of harassing her colleagues to the point that they complained to the administration that their fellow teacher had created a hostile work environment. Sounds like a good plot line for Abbott Elementary!

The administration put Ms. Walker on paid leave and did an investigation. The conclusion was that Ms. Walker was “unnecessarily confrontational, threatening, and with the intent/effect of bullying and intimating [sic] coworkers.” The administration charged Ms. Walker with creating a “toxic work environment which was unacceptable.” She was fired.

Her subsequent lawsuit was unsuccessful and would not normally merit mention here since it was based on a simple failure to produce evidence, rather than any interesting or new legal nugget. However, the fact that teachers report that a fellow teacher has singlehandedly created a “toxic work environment” make this one Dawgworthy.

It’s a reminder that playing well with others is an essential function of the job. Policies adopted in most districts reflect this. Check out your DFBB (Local) which lists all the reasons why a teacher’s contract might be nonrenewed. It probably includes “Failure to maintain an effective working relationship, or maintain good rapport, with parents, the community, or colleagues.”

This one is Walker v. Harmony Public Schools, decided by the 5th Circuit on February 22, 2023. It’s cited at 2023 WL ?????.

DAWG BONE: IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO EDUCATE A CHILD, BUT A SINGLE INDIVIDUAL CAN CREATE A TOXIC WORK ENVIRONMENT.

Got a question or comment for the Dawg? Let me hear from you at jwalsh@wabsa.com.

Tomorrow: Toolbox Tuesday!!