Springfield, Illinois – Springfield Leaks has learned that a Capital Area Career Center (CACC) instructor is under internal investigation with the school.
Joshua D. Jennings, age 38, of Jacksonville, Illinois was placed on paid leave by CACC on January 16, 2020. Jennings is the Lead EMS instructor and has been employed with CACC since March of 2014.
Jennings, who is on paid leave until further notice, is being investigated for a sexual harassment complaint, according to a Springfield Leaks source.
A Springfield Leaks reporter was able to reach Jennings on his cell phone for a comment regarding the sexual harassment complaint and the suspension. Jennings declined to comment and only said, “I’m not talking to anyone from the media.”
According to a letter mailed to Jennings on January 20, 2020, regarding the current internal investigation, the letter said the following, “As you know, we are investigating certain allegations of misconduct that have been made against you. You have been placed on paid administrative leave effective January 16, 2020 pending the results of that investigation. That leave of absence will continue until further notice.
During the period of the investigation, you are directed to refrain from being present on CACC property except with written authorization or direction from me. Also, since the leave of absence is paid, you are directed to remain on standby and ready to report during your regular working hours with a two-hour notice. You may be asked to report for an investigatory interview or to resume your teaching duties. Finally, during this period of investigation, you must refrain from discussing this matter with students, parents or co-workers except your union representatives.
An initial investigatory interview is scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 4 PM in my office. You are directed to report to my office at that time. You may have a union representative present if you wish.” The letter, which you can view by clicking here, was signed by CACC Director, Jodi L. Ferriell.
According to documents we received from CACC, Jennings was also the subject of an internal investigation in 2017. According to a letter dated November 8, 2017, that investigation into Jennings classroom conduct revealed the following:
- Mr. Jennings has been using inappropriate and profane language in the classroom.
- Mr. Jennings has been letting students use inappropriate and profane language in the classroom.
- Mr. Jennings has separated and singled out students based on classroom performance.
Jennings was given a reprimand for that complaint by CACC Principal, Wes Aymer.
At this time, it is unknown to Springfield Leaks the full details of the complaint against Jennings until the investigation is complete. CACC did provide the documents we requested pursuant to The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, and we will await the results of the full investigation.
Stay tuned to Springfield Leaks for updates.
Editor’s Note: Many thanks to the Director of CACC for being transparent and releasing documents in full pursuant to The Illinois Freedom of Information Act.