The Wayward Complaint

Ethical Educator

Scenario:

The superintendent receives a lengthy e-mail accidentally sent from a clerk in the district. The message, intended for the clerk’s sister with a similar first name, complains about not getting a job transfer she had requested in the district.

It complains about co-workers by name, their behaviors and perceptions of their poor work ethic and mentions possibly filing a grievance about the transfer process.

In quick order, the superintendent receives a second e-mail from the disgruntled clerk apologizing and begging her to disregard the first message.

Should the superintendent disregard the message as requested or does she have a duty to address the matter raised?