The Pasco School District has reached a settlement for nearly $2 million in a discrimination lawsuit filed by a former employee.
Jose Hernández suedthe district in 2023. Hernández said he experienced racial harassment, retaliation, and discrimination.
Now, the district has agreed to settle the matter for $1.9 million. The Washington Schools Risk Management Pool facilitated and funded the settlement. It comes about four months after Hernández retired.
"I'm glad it's over," he said. "The disappointment that I have is the position that the district seems to continue to take, that they failed to see the wrongdoing."
In a written statement, the district emphasized that the decision to settle does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing, and said it settled in order to avoid the cost and disruption of prolonged litigation.
Hernández said the issues began in 2012, when he started in his role as director of transportation. On his first day, he recalled hearing staff express disbelief that a Latino was appointed as their supervisor. Over the years, he claimed, the situation escalated, including graffiti being painted on district buildings.
He said he reported the incidents and filed a complaint with the superintendent. Still, the district did not effectively address his concerns, he said.
"Then, in 2021, I was placed on leave," Hernández said. "It was very obvious and evident that this was more of a retaliatory act on behalf of the district."
Hernandez’s attorney, Jay Free, said the settlement “reflects the severity of Pasco School District's misconduct and the harm that he had to endure." He added that the case sends a clear message: "If public employers allow hate and retaliation like they did in Jose's case, they will be held accountable."
The district said in its statement that it does not tolerate discrimination in any form and takes all allegations seriously. It also stated that it's fully committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff and community members.
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