During a recent board meeting of the Allentown School District, public comments highlighted significant concerns regarding workplace conditions and administrative practices within the district. Marceli Maldonado, a newly hired paralegal, addressed the board, detailing her troubling experiences since her employment began in January 2024.

Maldonado described a hostile work environment where she felt targeted and unsupported. She recounted being placed on administrative leave due to what she claimed were false accusations, asserting that the investigation into the matter lacked thoroughness and relied solely on unverified statements from colleagues.

Upon her reinstatement, Maldonado expressed frustration over her reassignment to a role that conflicted with her family obligations, particularly regarding childcare for her children. She emphasized that the district had not provided the necessary training for her new position, which compounded her difficulties. Despite her attempts to communicate with the Human Resources department and her union representative, she reported receiving no responses to her inquiries.

The board's public comment policy allows individuals to address issues affecting the district's administration and management, and Maldonado's testimony underscores the need for improved communication and support for staff within the Allentown School District. The meeting served as a platform for raising awareness about these critical issues, prompting potential discussions on how to enhance workplace conditions and support for employees in the future.