Recall petition submitted

A petition to recall the president of Constantine Public Schools Board of Education was submitted Wednesday.

St. Joseph County Clerk Lindsay Oswald said the petition seeks the recall of John Shuler. Details about who filed the petition were not clear.

According to the petition, its origin stems from a May 7 school board work session at Constantine High School.

The petition states: “After opening the meeting, consisting of approximately 150 citizens and students, Mr. Shuler verbally attacked Dale Wentela and Mike Messner. Mr. Shuler ignored repeated requests from audience members to cease his angry outburst. The school’s bylaws/policies state the board of education’s intent is to provide an environment that fosters the respect and dignity of each person. To this end, the board is committed to maintaining an environment free of harassment and intimidation.

“… John Shuler’s verbal abuse created an intimidating, hostile and offensive environment. Shuler’s harassment is strictly forbidden by the school’s bylaws,” the petition further stated.

Oswald said language of the recall petition has to be approved before signatures are collected to move the process forward.

She said a clarity hearing to determine if the statements are clear and factual will take place before the St. Joseph County Election Commission at 9 a.m. June 18 at the courthouse.