District 128 proceeding with process to fire veteran administrator

Four months after placing veteran administrator Briant Kelly on leave, Libertyville-Vernon Hills Area High School District 128 is seeking to have him fired.

In a 7-0 vote Monday, the school board authorized the process for a proposed “discharge” of Kelly, who signed a contract with the district as associate superintendent from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2029.

The contract includes a dismissal process for cause based on conduct that can include neglect of duty or breach of contract, according to the motion read by school board President Mithilesh Kotwal.

Kelly is accused of engaging in alleged misconduct, which may warrant discharge for cause, according to the motion.

Superintendent Marc Schaffer was directed to have Kelly served with the reasons for the proposed discharge and notify him that he is entitled to appear before the board to discuss them.

Kelly has worked for the district in various capacities for 26 years. He was placed on leave in late April, but the rationale, duration and other details of the leave were not provided. District 128 officials declined to comment at the time.

The action came amid continuing criticism of how school officials handled allegations of sexual grooming and other complaints brought by students.

mzawislak@dailyherald.com