Former HR Director Wins Wrongful Termination Suit Against Little Rock School District
Robert Robinson, the former director of human resources at the Little Rock School District, has been reinstated by a Pulaski County Circuit Court judge following a wrongful termination suit. Robinson claimed that his termination was a direct result of his efforts to expose problems within the district’s human resources department.
The trouble began in February 2024. According to Robinson’s attorney, Luther Sudder, multiple issues with terminations and the termination process continuously plagued the district since then. Robinson discovered that his contract was non-renewed in May and subsequently appealed the decision to the board. However, the board upheld the superintendent’s decision, prompting Robinson to file a lawsuit under the Arkansas Whistle Protector Act.
The Act, designed to protect employees who expose wrongdoing, allows for an expedited hearing to determine if retaliation occurred. Sudder explained that all Robinson needed to prove was that a reasonable person would believe retaliation had taken place. The judge sided with Robinson, ordering his reinstatement and giving the district the option to place him on administrative leave with pay or appeal the decision.
Sudder expressed hope that the district would settle the matter without further litigation, pointing out the unnecessary waste of taxpayer money on legal fees. The Little Rock School District has issued a statement saying they cannot comment on the matter due to ongoing litigation. Meanwhile, Sudder believes the HR department is in turmoil and needs a thorough overhaul.
The implications of this decision may have far-reaching effects on the district. With a judge’s injunction now in place, the district must either comply with the order or risk further financial and reputational damage. This situation highlights the importance of protecting whistleblowers and ensuring that districts operate transparently and without retaliating against employees who highlight issues.