​​SAN JOSE, CA – The Santa Clara County Office of Education is aware that a third party has issued a press release regarding a personnel matter involving an ongoing investigation. While SCCOE does not comment on individual personnel matters, paid administrative leave is used only when information warrants a formal review under established procedures. Paid administrative leave is not disciplinary or punitive in nature. Complaints are reviewed by an impartial investigator, including external investigators when appropriate, to ensure objectivity and fairness. SCCOE respects the right of all employees to organize. Placement on paid administrative leave does not restrict an employee’s right to organize, and SCCOE remains committed to protecting employee rights, inclusive of their right to organize.  

SCCOE is committed to maintaining a safe, professional, and respectful workplace for every employee, where all staff are treated equitably and concerns can be raised and addressed appropriately. When concerns arise, SCCOE follows established complaint and investigation procedures designed to protect employees, preserve the integrity of the process, and ensure a fair and impartial review. These procedures are applied consistently to all employees, regardless of role, leadership position, assignment, or bargaining unit, and are intended to balance employee rights with workplace safety.

Paid administrative leave may be used as a standard administrative measure when an employee’s continued presence could interfere with an investigation or when the safety and well-being of others may be at risk. Paid administrative leave allows the Office to conduct a thorough and unbiased review without disruption. Placement on paid administrative leave may be considered based on the nature and seriousness of the concerns raised, the information available at the time, and, when applicable, credible evidence of a documented pattern of substantiated similar behavior, rather than a single isolated incident.

Employees placed on paid administrative leave remain employed by SCCOE, continue to receive pay and benefits, and are expected to remain available during regular business hours. To protect the integrity of the process, employees on leave are temporarily restricted from accessing SCCOE property and work systems to prevent any real or perceived interference with the review.

SCCOE recognizes the importance of public participation at Santa Clara County Board of Education meetings and respects the right of employees and their representatives to speak during public comment. At the same time, the Office is legally obligated to protect employee privacy and to ensure that active reviews are conducted without influence or interference, and therefore does not confirm or discuss details related to ongoing personnel matters. SCCOE remains committed to transparency, due process, and maintaining a workplace that reflects its core values, and essential services and programs continue without interruption while matters are reviewed and processes are applied consistently and equitably to support both employee rights and workplace safety.