According to WRAL, a teacher at Franklin County charter school Youngsville Academy was placed on administrative leave today, just one day after news broke that Youngsville teachers were being required to come to school despite the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis that has resulted in a statewide stay-at-home order by Governor Cooper.

Yesterday WRAL revealed that teachers were expected to report back to the building on April 9.

Communication from school administration noted that educational models other schools were following were not working and suggested that any staff members feeling anxiety about coming to work should consult mental health services.

Today the teacher who had reached out to WRAL was placed on paid administrative leave while an investigation is made into contract violations for “disparaging the school” and not following protocol for reporting concerns.

Youngsville Academy founder and principal Larry Henson’s email to the teacher warns that the investigation could result in termination. (Read the WRAL piece to see the actual email). But as WRAL notes, it’s illegal for employers to terminate employees for reporting unsafe working conditions.

Any employee who believes their employer has retaliated against them for exercising their rights under whistleblower protection laws can file an official complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration by completing this online form or by calling 1-800-321-OSHA.