A Texas school principal faces termination after allegedly threatening violence against colleagues over his son’s college prospects.
At a Glance
- Natalia ISD board voted 5-0 to fire Marshall Lee Myers for violent threats
- Myers allegedly threatened to kill colleagues if his son’s college record was affected
- An independent examiner supported the board’s decision to terminate Myers
- The district emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence
- Myers had previously been placed on administrative leave for similar issues
Principal’s Threatening Remarks Lead to Dismissal
The Natalia Independent School District in Texas has taken decisive action against a high-ranking administrator following allegations of violent threats. Marshall Lee Myers, who held various leadership positions within the district, was fired after reportedly making alarming statements to colleagues. The incident, which occurred on September 26, 2024, involved Myers allegedly saying, “If anybody kills my son’s college record, I’m going to kill you all.”
The threat was reported by an employee who felt unsafe, and another employee corroborated the account. Following the report, Myers was placed on administrative leave with pay while the district launched an investigation into the matter. The severity of the threat prompted swift action from district leadership.
District’s Response and Investigation
Superintendent Lana Collavo recommended Myers’ termination to the school board, which subsequently voted 5-0 to fire him. The district’s response underscores its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both staff and students. Myers requested a termination hearing, which was conducted by an independent examiner appointed by Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath.
“Dr. Myers’ termination stemmed from a credible severe threat of violence against colleagues, a violation of district policy and workplace safety standards,” Natalia ISD said.
The examiner’s findings supported the district’s decision, concluding that the burden of proof had been met to proceed with termination. This external validation reinforced the district’s stance on workplace safety and its zero-tolerance policy for threats of violence.
Previous Incidents and District Policy
It emerged during the investigation that this was not Myers’ first brush with disciplinary action. He had been placed on administrative leave in 2023 for similar issues and had received warnings. Despite these prior incidents, Myers allegedly entered the campus without permission during his recent leave, an act considered insubordination by the district.
“Threats of violence have no place in the workplace, and the district will take swift and decisive action to protect the safety and well-being of its staff and students,” Natalia ISD said.
The Natalia Independent School District, which serves 1,265 students across four campuses, has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.
