A Northern California school administrator, Kenneth Turnage II, who lost a city post four years ago over controversial Covid remarks, has been accused of workplace bullying for putting his subordinate’s desk on a roof. Turnage is the director of maintenance, operations, and facilities at the Antioch Unified School District. The incident occurred last year when Turnage allegedly had subordinate Jim Kesser’s desk moved on top of a maintenance yard structure in an effort to humiliate him. Other district employees have also come forward, alleging that Turnage is a bully who has benefited from being friends with superintendent Stephanie Anello and her husband, the city’s former police chief.
The allegations against Turnage could potentially result in Anello losing her job as well. Several employees have spoken out against Turnage and the toxic work environment he has created. School board president Antonio Hernandez has expressed his lack of support for the superintendent, stating that the incident involving Kesser’s desk demonstrates poor judgment. He plans to call for a special trustees meeting to address the situation and seek Anello’s removal. Another school board member, Jag Lathan, has also condemned Turnage’s actions as unacceptable and emphasized the importance of a safe and positive school district culture.
Turnage, Anello, and her husband have not yet provided any comments on the allegations of workplace bullying. When questioned during a public comments session at a board meeting, Anello remained silent and did not address any inquiries regarding Turnage. This incident comes four years after Turnage made controversial Facebook comments about Covid-19, where he suggested that allowing the virus to spread could benefit society by eliminating vulnerable populations. Following public outcry, Turnage deleted the post but refused to resign. The Antioch City Council voted to remove him from his position as planning commission chairman due to his remarks.
The situation involving Turnage and Anello has sparked outrage among school district employees and board members. The superintendent’s association with Turnage, despite his history of controversial and unacceptable behavior, has raised concerns about her leadership and decision-making. Employees have expressed feeling unsafe and uncomfortable in the work environment created by Turnage’s alleged bullying behavior. The school board is taking action to address the situation and ensure accountability for those involved. The incident highlights the importance of a positive and respectful work culture within educational institutions, where staff can feel supported and valued.
