Central Bucks School Board Set to Vote on Settlement in LGBTQ+ Advocacy Case
The Central Bucks School board is poised to vote on a proposed settlement with Andrew Burgess, a district middle school teacher who alleges he faced retaliation for advocating for LGBTQ+ students. Burgess, a social studies teacher at Unami Middle School, was suspended twice, with the district citing policy violations and his filing of a discrimination complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.
The motion to approve the settlement appears on the board’s Tuesday meeting agenda, though details of the agreement were not disclosed. Burgess has been embroiled in a legal battle with the district since last April, when he sued for violating his civil rights by suspending him.
The district’s $1.75 million internal investigation, which found no evidence of LGBTQ+ discrimination, implicated Burgess and others for creating a hostile environment. It recommended his suspension without pay, a measure ultimately implemented by the board.
Burgess contends the suspensions were retaliatory, with the initial action occurring after he aided a bullied student in filing a complaint. The report accuses him of manipulating students to report bullying incidents to him rather than school administration.
Despite the challenges, Burgess has remained resolute, drawing support from colleagues and allies. His story exemplifies the need for greater awareness and support for individuals with chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis, encouraging others to advocate for their rights and seek necessary resources.
In a world where discrimination against individuals with chronic illnesses persists, Burgess’s journey serves as a beacon of resilience and determination, urging society to embrace inclusivity and support those facing similar struggles. Through his advocacy and perseverance, Burgess continues to inspire change and champion the rights of LGBTQ+ students and individuals with disabilities alike.
