North Callaway R-I Schools Superintendent Bryan Thomsen has a letter in his file that states he will be fired if he is convicted of driving while intoxicated again.
The North Callaway Board of Education sent a press release today stating that. Thomsen pleaded guilty this past June to a DWI charge in Linn County for an incident that occurred a little more than a year earlier.
"Dr. Thomsen has made a personal statement acknowledging his mistake; expressing his apologies for his personal failure," the press release stated. "The Board of Education takes this matter very seriously particularly in light of the fact that Dr. Thomsen is the Chief Executive of the District and, more importantly, serves as a role model for all of our students."
The press release stated that Thomsen informed then-Board President Dennis Zerr shortly after the incident in May 2012, but the full board was not informed of the incident until Aug. 30, 2013 - the same day the Fulton Sun interviewed Thomsen regarding the incident. A story appeared in the Sun on Sept. 1.
"The Board is mindful of the effect of this situation on our school community," the press release stated. "In addition to the disciplinary action, the Board has directed Dr. Thomsen to rededicate himself to providing the leadership necessary to provide our students with the highest level of education. In this effort, Superintendent Thomsen has the full support of the Board of Education."
The press release stated that the board voted unanimously to place the letter in his file that "his employment will be terminated if there is another occurrence."
The board met in executive session for more than three hours Tuesday to discuss the matter. It was still meeting at press time for the Sun on Tuesday night, but the next day a board member told the Sun the board had eventually taken action on the matter later Tuesday or early Wednesday morning and a statement would be available later.
Missouri Sunshine law allows 72 hours from the time a personnel decision is made to inform the media and public.
The press release was sent Thursday afternoon.