Lang
5/19/20
A former principal at West Branch High School has received a reprimand against his teaching license.
Online records show the Iowa State Board of Education issued the reprimand against the license of Shannon Bucknell on Friday. The board cited Standard VI of its Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics, which states a reprimand may be issued for “unethical practice toward other members of the profession, parents, students, and the community.”
The West Branch School Board accepted Bucknell’s resignation last August after allegations of “bullying” and creating a hostile environment from female students and staff. It came after a months-long investigation into allegations that Bucknell was dismissive of female students who complained about harassment from a male student.
According to The West Branch Times, documents to accept Bucknell’s resignation stated that he also created a hostile work environment, and:
• Failed to take appropriate steps to change that culture,
• Failed to adequately respond to complaints by female students,
• Made inappropriate comments to female staff, and
• Failed to meet his ethical and professional responsibilities as an Iowa educator and school administrator under the Iowa Standards for School Leaders.
As part of the resignation agreement, Bucknell can’t sue the school district, and the district did not oppose any unemployment claims.