Ex-Superintendent Scarlett Sues St. Louis Schools for Wrongful Termination

Nearly two years after her abrupt departure from St. Louis Public Schools (SLPS), former Superintendent Dr. Keisha Scarlett has filed a lawsuit against the district, alleging wrongful termination. The legal action, initiated on April 20, follows her placement on leave in July 2024 and subsequent firing in October of the same year.

Allegations of Misconduct and Retaliation

Scarlett’s termination came amid concerns raised by the school board regarding hiring practices, salaries, and spending that allegedly lacked proper board approval. An audit also pointed to potential misuse of public funds, including unauthorized expenses on food delivery and retail purchases. The lawsuit, however, claims the board never voiced these concerns prior to placing her on administrative leave, which she argues violated her contract.

The former superintendent asserts that she was fired as a means to deflect blame and in retaliation for reporting alleged misconduct, specifically citing approximately 2,000 unpaid vendor invoices she brought to the board’s attention. She is pursuing a claim under the Missouri Whistleblowers Act.

Defamation and Contract Violations

Adding to her claims, Scarlett is also pursuing a defamation suit against former board vice president Matt Davis. She accuses him of making false public and media statements about her. Furthermore, the lawsuit alleges that her contract was violated when she was barred from accessing crucial work documents, including her email and laptop, hindering her ability to prepare for a hearing.

Scarlett, who was hired in July 2023 with a salary of $268,000, defends her hiring and compensation decisions, stating they were made with board knowledge and were necessary to attract competitive talent in a district lacking a clear pay structure. She also claims the credit card usage stemmed from a flawed procurement system, issues she had previously raised with the board.

A Heated Legal Battle

Matt Davis has strongly refuted Scarlett’s claims, calling the lawsuit “baseless” in a public statement. He asserted that the St. Louis Public Schools Board acted lawfully and transparently, fully complying with the superintendent’s contract. Davis stated he would “forcefully defend” against what he termed “ridiculous allegations.”

Scarlett is seeking at least $25,000 in damages, along with lost wages and benefits from her three-year contract. The case highlights a contentious dispute between a former superintendent and the school district’s leadership.