In a significant legal development, Jody Immel, a former assistant principal at Skyline High School, has filed a lawsuit against the Idaho Falls School District. Immel alleges that the district discriminated against her due to her sex, religious beliefs, and veteran status. The lawsuit, which was first reported by EastIdahoNews.com, outlines that Immel applied for 26 positions within the district, but these roles were given to younger, predominantly male individuals who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Allegations of Discrimination

Immel, who is 60 years old and not affiliated with an organized religion, claims her superior qualifications were overlooked in favor of less experienced candidates. Her legal complaint, spanning 15 pages, was filed in court and reviewed by EdNews. The district has denied all allegations.

Beyond her role as an assistant principal, Immel served as an advanced programs coordinator and college and career advisor at Emerson High. Her extensive background includes 24 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, and she is recognized as a partially disabled veteran due to post-traumatic stress disorder and hearing loss. Immel asserts that the district failed to accommodate her disabilities, a claim the district also denies.

Employment and Departure

Immel’s departure from the district in 2024 is another point of contention. While the district maintains that she resigned, Immel contends that her inability to renew her teaching certificate, due to her administrative role, led to her departure. She was informed of a change in job classification and a pay reduction amid districtwide budget cuts.

Her attorney, Anna Moritz of Cedar Law LLP, argues that the district treated Immel differently due to her age and disabilities. Immel, who began her career in Idaho Falls in 2013 after teaching in Arizona, is now seeking legal redress. A pre-trial meeting is scheduled for June 24.

Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.