UPDATE: June 23 at 5:00 p.m.
The Pasco School District has issued this response to the settlement:
On behalf of the district:
The Pasco School District confirms that the lawsuit filed by Jose Hernandez has been resolved through a settlement facilitated and funded by the Washington Schools Risk Management Pool. Mr. Hernandez retired from his employment with the district effective March 31, 2025.
This resolution was made to avoid the cost and disruption of prolonged litigation and to allow the district to maintain its full focus on serving students and the community. It is important to emphasize that this decision does not represent an admission of wrongdoing.
The district’s position regarding the allegations remains unchanged. The Pasco School District categorically denies the characterizations made in the lawsuit and stands firmly by its values. The district does not tolerate discrimination in any form and takes all such allegations seriously.
Pasco School District remains fully committed to upholding a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all students, staff, and community members.
PASCO, Wash. – The Pasco School District has agreed to pay $1.9 million to settle a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by José Hernandez, said Bloom Law PLLC, a Seattle-based law firm specializing in employment law.
Hernandez, a former transportation director who served the district for 19 years, reported racial slurs against him, threatening messages and degrading graffiti, Bloom Law said in a release.
Hernandez filed the lawsuit in 2023, naming the district and superintendent Michelle Whitney. His complaint highlighted a hostile work environment and broader institutional failings.
After voicing concerns, he was placed on leave and demoted under false accusations of misconduct, the release said.
“No one should have to endure the kind of hate and hostility I faced simply for speaking up,” Hernandez stated.
Jay Free of Bloom Law PLLC represented Hernandez. He hopes the outcome will push school leaders across Washington to take workplace equity seriously.
“José’s courage in coming forward has shed light on an entrenched culture of racism that must be addressed,” Free said.
NonStop Local has reached out to the district for a response.
