Snake River teacher under fire

A hearing for a long-time Snake River High School teacher that will determine if the district terminates her contract will continue Monday.

Elaine Asmus, who had been at the school for nearly 30 years, was under fire after an argument with a fellow teacher who also happens to be the superintendent’s wife.

Due to allegations of harassment, intimidation and bullying of several teachers, the Snake River School Board decided to hold a due-process hearing Friday. More than 200 people attended.

Asmus’ lawyer argued she is an upstanding teacher, and that’s the only argument she needs.

“The argument is that it doesn’t fit the punishment,” said Paul Stark. “There were multiple levels of discipline in place that could solve the problem and save a veteran teacher’s career.”

Asmus, a biology teacher, has a lot of supporters, including former students like Neill Jenson.

“I thinks it’s pretty silly and pretty ridiculous that this is happening because she has given so much to the community that I feel like we need to get together and try to help her so she can stay,” said Jenson.