Sequoia Union High School District HR admin resigns

“When I announced my resignation to my staff and colleagues, I shared that I have deeply valued my time working for the Sequoia Union High School District and the collegial relationships I enjoy with the Sequoia team,” Beal wrote.

The district and its administrators have faced increased scrutiny in recent years by staff, parents and former students, with three major lawsuits filed since 2024.

A lawsuit was filed last November against the district’s administrators, teachers and board members by Jewish families alleging that they ignored complaints of harassment and tolerate “casual antisemitism on its campuses.” This lawsuit names Beal as one of 14 defendants in their official and personal capacities but does not name the district as an institution.

Another lawsuit that names the district is one regarding the arrest of two Menlo-Atherton High School students in April 2023. The suit alleges a forceful arrest and detainment of two Black 16-year-old students. The lawsuit did not initially include the district as a whole but was amended after investigation by civil rights attorney John Burris, that the district’s conduct ultimately contributed to the police’s involvement and use of excessive force.

Although this suit does not name Beal specifically, a lead investigator for the Oakland-based Law Offices of John Burris, who is representing the lawsuit, Dan Molieri, has made multiple public comments during school board meetings directing frustrations at the district and specifically Beal.

In August 2024, Molieri was issued a 14-day “stay away order” from board meetings after he made what administrators felt were threatening comments during a school board meeting, and allegedly threatened Beal.

A police investigation was submitted for review to the District Attorney’s Office, Redwood City Police Capt. Ashley Osborne said. District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said his office received the referral in November and the matter remains under investigation.

Since, Molieri has returned to speak in front of the dais, as recently as at the Feb. 12 board meeting.

Another lawsuit was filed in May 2024 against the district in its full capacity by former Woodside High School counselor Sharlett Downing, alleging wrongful termination after she was denied accommodations for her mental health disabilities.

Superintendent Crystal Leach did not respond to request for comment on how the district plans to retain quality personnel to replace Beal. The school board approved personnel recommendations, which included the resignation of Beal, as a consent agenda item on the Feb. 12 board meeting.