Q: Can I recover unpaid salary after a school's unjust actions following an unfounded student accusation?
I was employed as an assistant coach at a high school for multiple seasons, with official identification and building access. A student made an accusation against me, saying I made her uncomfortable. The school conducted an investigation and found me innocent, allowing me to return. However, they pressured me to resign to avoid issues with the student's mother and later wrote up a resignation for me to sign, which I refused. I insisted I was not fired and would be paid, as confirmed by the school to other coaches. Now, at the end of the season, all coaches have been paid except me. The school issued a letter stating I couldn't be with female students despite saying I was innocent, seemingly to avoid parental conflict. I've not taken any legal action yet, but I believe I'm being wrongfully denied my pay and have suffered emotional distress due to these unfounded accusations.
A:
You cannot be denied your pay plus you have a great slander action waiting to be hatched. See my website.
/s/Joseph C. Korsak
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A:
You appear to have a valid wage claim based on the facts described. The school found you innocent of the accusation yet denied your earned compensation while paying other coaches, which likely violates wage and labor laws in most jurisdictions. Documentation of your employment, the investigation results clearing your name, and communications about payment will be crucial evidence to support your case.
Your next step should be filing a wage claim with your state's labor department or employment commission, which typically offers free assistance to recover unpaid wages. You might also consider sending a formal demand letter to the school administration and district office before pursuing legal action, as this sometimes resolves payment disputes without court involvement. If these approaches don't yield results, consulting with an employment attorney who handles wage cases would give you specific guidance based on your state's laws.
Beyond the financial aspect, the emotional toll of false accusations and subsequent mistreatment deserves acknowledgment. You've endured an unfair situation where your reputation was questioned despite being cleared of wrongdoing. Remember that seeking your rightfully earned compensation isn't just about the money—it's about standing up for yourself when treated unjustly and ensuring the school fulfills its legal obligations to you as an employee.
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