April 7, 2023 at 11:42 a.m.
School Board member misses superintendent hire vote, CL District looking into 'allegations'
The day after the meeting, the school district sent out an e-mail to parents that was signed by board chair Lori Berg and current superintendent Dean Jennissen, stating, “We were made aware of allegations regarding Cory Spencer late last week. Mr. Spencer has served as a District employee, volunteer, and Board member. Since the District learned of these allegations, Mr. Spencer has not been performing duties for the District. We immediately commenced an investigation, which remains ongoing.”
The district's e-mailed statement continued, "These types of investigations take time and we ask for the community’s patience as we do our due diligence in following up on these allegations and completing this investigation process. We recognize our public desires for more information regarding the allegations and the District’s investigation process. The District, however, is not allowed to share further information at this time due to the District’s data privacy obligations under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
“Please know that the District takes all allegations seriously and is committed to providing a safe environment for all,” the e-mail concluded.
Jennissen said in a follow up that Spencer, who also is a Sergeant with the Lakes Area Police and is the President of the Chisago Lakes Hockey Association, has not been removed or censured by the board, but that he voluntarily removed himself from school board activity during the investigation.
Lakes Area Police Chief Bill Schlumbohm confirmed there is an active complaint against Officer Spencer that was filed on March 21, adding that Spencer has been on leave for “several weeks.” Schlumbohm indicated the leave started before the complaint was received and the two have nothing to do with each other.
Chisago Lakes Hockey Association vice president Neil Carlson stated that Spencer is currently on a leave of absence from their organization.
Spencer did not respond to a request for a statement.
UPDATE: On Wednesday, April 5, the Chisago Lakes Hockey Association voted to remove Spencer as the President of the association. They cited his indefinite suspension from USA Hockey as prohibiting him from fulfilling his obligations. "We want to thank Cory Spencer for his time serving as our president," the e-mail from the hockey association said to parents. It was signed the association's Board of Directors.
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