(Atlantic, IA) – During a brief meeting of the Atlantic Community School District’s Board of Education, the Board, Wednesday (Feb. 11th) voted to terminate the employment of now former High School Counselor Jesse McCann. Their action followed a motion by Board Member Chet Meneely, based on a recommendation by Superintendent Dr. Beth Johnsen.

Prior to their vote, the Atlantic School Board heard from Liam Spencer, a student at the Atlantic High School, an advocate for a recent student protest and representing some of the students with regard to the district’s handling of McCann’s employment earlier this month, and in months prior, when allegations began to surface concerning his alleged inappropriate behavior with students.

Spencer questioned the Board about their response to the situation, but he was reminded by Board President Josh McLaren the Public Comment portion of the meeting is not  an “interactive” time, meaning the Board would not respond, per Board policy, and only allow comments or questions to be heard.

Liam Spencer addresses the Atlantic School Board during their meeting 2-11-26 (YouTube image)

No charges have been filed against McCann, in connection with the allegations. More than 40 people attended the meeting, and at least 118 people watched the meeting via YouTube.

In other business, Board President McLaren announced a Special Election will be held with regard to the filling of the school board seat left vacant by the resignation last month of Laura McLean. During their Jan. 14th meeting, McLaren said the Board would publicize the vacancy and accept applications to fill the position, but he acknowledged if there were enough signatures on a petition to call for a special election, that would take place.

During tonight’s (Feb. 11th) meeting, McLaren acknowledged a petition with the required signatures was received, and he outlined the process the procedure would take to submit nominations for candidates seeking the Board seat.

Nominations are due-in by March 6th at the School District’s Business Office at the Achievement Center. The Special Election itself will be held March 31st.

And, the Atlantic School Board set their Work Session on March 25th as the date and time for Public Hearings on the 2026-2027 School Master Calendar, and FY 27 Budget.