ORANGE : Director Fights for School Job

The personnel director of Orange Unified School District is contesting the district trustees’ decision not to renew his contract, alleging the decision was made illegally.

N. Jack Elsner, one year from retirement after 28 years with the district, was notified March 14 that his contract would be terminated June 30, according to a letter to the school district from Elsner’s lawyer, George W. Shaeffer Jr.

The letter states that trustees violated the Brown Act--the state’s open-meeting law--when they met in closed session Feb. 23 to terminate Elsner’s contract without following proper procedure. He was notified of that decision by letter March 14, his attorney said.

The trustees also violated the law by failing to inform the public that they were considering Elsner’s dismissal, the letter states.

Supt. Robert L. French said Monday he could not comment because district officials are not permitted to discuss personnel issues.

The March 27 letter from Elsner’s lawyer to the board states that because trustees violated provisions of the statute, the decision to terminate Elsner’s contract is null and void. It seeks reinstatement of Elsner in his current position through the end of the 1995-96 school session.

Elsner, who is paid $73,000 a year, said Monday that he would lose $350 a month in retirement benefits if he is forced to step down this year rather than next, when he will be nearer age 60.