Placer Union trustee faulted in Del Oro basketball investigation, didn’t break law
A district-commissioned investigation concluded that Placer Union High School District Trustee tom Duncan overstepped governance boundaries in matters involving the Del Oro High School girls basketball program, but officials have declined to say exactly what he did.
Duncan, who has a daughter on the varsity team and serves as president of a youth feeder program, was investigated by an independent third party after allegations surfaced that he improperly influenced operations within the girls basketball program. District officials declined to specify the allegations but said the concerns that led to the investigation were first reported by the Auburn Journal in December.
Exactly what conduct prompted the investigation remains unclear but investigators found no violations of state education law and no evidence Duncan acted for personal gain.
.png "Z-pbx (6).png")
Board President Jessica Spaid announced the investigation’s findings during a recent board meeting. According to the review, Duncan’s actions crossed governance boundaries and were inconsistent with board policies that separate board oversight from day-to-day district administration.
“At the same time, the review did not find any violations of the Education Code and did not conclude that Trustee Duncan acted for personal gain, misused public resources, or sought to benefit any individual student,” Spaid said.
District officials did not identify the specific actions investigators found were inconsistent with board policy.
Spaid said the board has tried to balance transparency with legal and confidentiality requirements related to personnel matters.
“While not all details can be publicly shared, the board is committed to ensuring that its actions reflect both accountability and good governance,” she said.
She added that the board takes the findings seriously.
“Clear boundaries between governance and administration are essential to effective leadership and public trust,” Spaid said. “In response, the Board is participating in additional governance training and will continue to review and strengthen its practices to ensure clarity of roles, adherence to Board policies, and consistent, professional service to the District.”
The district did not provide details about what the additional training would include.
Duncan did not respond to requests for comment seeking details about the conduct investigators found inappropriate.
Addressing the board, Duncan said his actions stemmed from concern for the community.
“Shortly after taking office, community members came to me with concerns regarding the Del Oro girls basketball program,” he said. “After hearing the alarming information over the course of a month, I sought guidance from district administration and followed the direction provided by district leadership. I did not direct site staff, despite speculation suggesting otherwise.”
Superintendent Tom O’Malley said he could have done a better job guiding Duncan through the situation.
“My job is to provide you appropriate guidance, and one of the reasons I was brought here was to do so,” O’Malley said. “I definitely could have done much better in this. My commitment is that I will continue to provide that guidance and make sure I lead when needed and do the best I can for all of you.”
