On March 2011, Gabriele, a 5^th grade teacher at Bashaw Elementary School (“BES”) was officially placed on an initial 90-day period of Performance Probation pursuant to section 1012.34(3), Florida Statutes (2011), due to several areas of continued concern.  As a result, Gabriele was provided assistance during the initial 90-day period from Caroline Hoffner, Staff Development; Mary Beth Croome, Team Leader; Josh Bennett, Principal of Bashaw Elementary School; and Tina Stancil, Assistant Principal BES to address the areas of concern.

At the expiration of her initial 90-day performance probation period, the period was extended for an additional 90 days.  Assistance to Gabriele was continued during this additional 90-day period.  Gabriele was observed, and pre- and post-observation meetings were conducted with her multiple times within the 90-day probation periods.  However, Gabriele did not satisfactorily correct the deficiencies in the areas of concern which included, but are not limited to:  1) Classroom Management/Management of Student Conduct, 2) Instruction/Presentation of Subject Matter, 3) Effective Communication, and 4) Employability. 

Principal Josh Bennett notified the Superintendent in writing of Gabriele’s failure to correct the deficiencies for which she was placed on performance probation.  Subsequently, the Superintendent notified the Employee in writing, pursuant to section 1012.34(4), Florida Statutes (2011), of his intent to recommend Gabriele’s termination based upon her continued performance deficiencies as outlined in the correspondence from Principal Bennett.

On March 2, 2012, Gabriele was informed that effective March 5, 2012, she would be placed on paid administrative leave.  Gabriele’s counsel filed a request for hearing in this matter on March 6, 2012. 

The Superintendent recommends that Gabriele be suspended without pay pending the outcome of the administrative hearing.  No further Board action is required to grant her hearing request as the Chairman has already granted the hearing as permitted by policy.

Motion and approval to suspend the Employee Michele Gabriele without pay effective March 27, 2012, pending the outcome of the hearing she has already requested and been granted.

If the Employee is suspended without pay and benefits and following an evidentiary hearing the Employee is reinstated, the Employee may be awarded back pay for the period of the suspension.

Legal Department

Erin G. Jackson, Esq./dv

03/26/12