A high-ranking school administrator has accused a local school district of sex discrimination, sparking a legal battle that could have significant implications for employment practices in the education sector. On June 10, 2024, Timothy P. Stoops filed a complaint against the Millcreek Township School District in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
According to the complaint, Stoops alleges that his position as Director of Assessment and Alternative Learning was eliminated under false pretenses. Initially told by Superintendent Dr. Ian Roberts that budget cuts necessitated the elimination of his role, Stoops later learned during a school board meeting on May 22, 2023, that his position was being realigned rather than cut due to financial constraints. Stoops contends this explanation was merely a pretext for sex discrimination.
Stoops' tenure with the Millcreek Township School District began in August 1996, where he served in various capacities including teacher, administrator, and principal before becoming Director of Assessment and Alternative Learning. Despite nearly three decades of distinguished service and exemplary evaluations, Stoops found himself sidelined when two principal positions opened up in May 2023. He applied for both roles but was not selected despite his extensive qualifications and experience.
Instead, the school district appointed two less qualified female candidates to these positions. "Plaintiff was more qualified on the basis of education, experience and performance for either position than any of the other applicants," reads the complaint. Stoops believes this decision reflects a bias against male employees within the district.
The lawsuit cites violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA), which prohibit employment discrimination based on sex. "Defendant’s actions were and are in violation of the prohibitions in Title VII and the PHRA against sex discrimination," asserts Stoops' complaint.
Stoops is seeking several forms of relief from the court: lost wages, liquidated damages, lost benefits including retirement and health benefits, attorney's fees and costs. Additionally, due to what he describes as knowing and willful violations by the defendant with malicious intent, he is also seeking punitive damages under Title VII.
Representing Stoops is Joseph H. Chivers from The Employment Rights Group LLC based in Pittsburgh. The case has been assigned Civil Action No. 1:24-163 with Judge Susan Paradise Baxter presiding over it.