The Unionville-Chadds Ford School District announced that the Pennsylvania Department of Education has dismissed an Educator Misconduct complaint filed against Superintendent Dr. John Sanville finding “no probable cause to believe that there are grounds to pursue disciplinary action.”
The complaint came from a UCFSD parent Chad Williams, who filed multiple complaints in multiple jurisdictions over the district conducting health-related surveys of students without first getting parental permission.
According to published reports, Williams is disputing the district’s claim that all the investigations — including a pair with the federal Department of Education — have been dismissed. Williams reportedly plans to file a complaint against the state Department of Education for failing to give him due process rights, including the opportunity to testify or present evidence.
In a statement, the district argues that the complaint, which was filed earlier this year, has been thoroughly investigated by state education officials, who concluded that there was insufficient evidence to warrant any further action or disciplinary measures against Sanville.
“We are gratified but not surprised by the Department of Education’s decision,” said Victoria Baratta, President of the UFCSD Board. “Dr. Sanville has led our district with integrity and dedication for many years, and this outcome reaffirms our confidence in his leadership. Throughout this process, he has maintained his professionalism while continuing to focus on what matters most – providing an exceptional education to all students in our district.”
In that statement, the school board “expressed its full support for Sanville throughout the investigatory process and looks forward to his continued leadership.”
Sanville, who is slated to retire in July, expressed his appreciation for the support he received during the investigation.
“I am thankful for the thorough review conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and am pleased with their finding,” Sanville said in a letter to the UCFSD community. “Throughout my career, I have strived to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in service to our students, staff, and community. I am grateful for the unwavering support from our School Board, administrative team, faculty, staff, and families during this challenging time. My focus remains, as always, on ensuring that every student in the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District receives the excellent education they deserve.”
