FAYETTEVILLE — A former maintenance worker filed a federal sexual harassment lawsuit Tuesday against Farmington Public Schools, administrators and employees claiming he was subjected to a hostile work environment brought on by a co-worker’s sexual banter.
Joseph Glass claims he was forced to quit his job because of ongoing comments of a sexual nature by a maintenance department co-worker. Glass claims he reported the behavior but his supervisor, school administrators and the school board didn’t do anything to stop it.
Glass, who according to the lawsuit is the father of a young girl, a youth minister and not gay, claims the male co-worker began by making comments about forcible sex acts with young boys and later made similar comments directed at Glass. Glass contends their supervisor was present when the comments were made and only laughed.
“People talking and acting like this around young children was offensive to Mr. Glass,” said Jason Boyeskie, Glass’ attorney. “A reasonable person would do the same thing.”
The lawsuit, in addition to the school district, names as defendants Tommy Thomas, the co-worker Glass claims made the sexual comments; Reggie Higgs, the maintenance department supervisor; and Superintendent Ron Wright.
Boyeskie said the situation, which included “a lot of foul-mouthed stuff,” was created by lower-level employees and allowed to continue by administrators and policy makers.
Glass contends he was later physically assaulted by the co-worker and nothing was done.
Glass said he informed the school board of the issues and, after nothing was done, he resigned in January.
The suit contends his supervisor intimidated employees and created an environment that was hostile to employee complaints, often resulting in termination.
The suit makes claims for sexual harassment, constructive discharge and negligent supervision or retention.
Glass seeks damages for compensatory and punitive damages, including lost earnings, emotional pain and suffering, inconvenience, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life.
Wright declined comment on the suit.
“We’ll just withhold comment and let the justice system work,” Wright said.