Habel wins court case to keep seat on BVA school board

He was accused in November of failing to safeguard confidential information.

On Tuesday, a court ruled that Director John Habel III, who sits on the Belle Vernon Area school board, did not violate any codes, meaning he can keep his position.

The board voted to censure Habel after an incident in November where he allegedly failed to safeguard confidential information. According to the official censure resolution, the board claimed Habel disclosed information he learned during an executive session and shared confidential documents related to district personnel.

The resolution added that Habel shared the information with his wife and daughter, who then further publicized and shared it with others. But in November, Habel said he did not leak the document.

After voting to censure Habel, the district also moved to remove him from the board under section 318 of the Pennsylvania School Code, which provides steps for the removal of a school board director for “failure to organize or neglect of duty.”

On Tuesday, Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas Judge Chris Scherer stated that Habel wasn’t found to have violated section 318. The decision means Habel can continue to serve on the school board until his term ends.

“I am grateful for the court’s careful consideration and for the opportunity to continue serving the students, families, and educators of our community,” Habel said in a brief statement following the decision.

In a statement on behalf of the school board, Superintendent Dr. Timothy Glasspool said they will respect the court’s decision.

“The Belle Vernon Area School District acknowledges the recent ruling by the Westmoreland County Court regarding School Director John Habel III,” Glasspool wrote. “The Court has determined that Mr. Habel did not violate any codes that would warrant removal from the Board, and as such, he will continue in his role for the remainder of his term.

“We respect the judicial process and appreciate the clarity this decision brings. The District remains focused on our core mission: supporting the academic achievement, well-being, and success of every student in our care. We will continue to work collaboratively and productively with all members of the Board as we move forward in service to the Belle Vernon Area community.”

Habel did not win reelection to the board during the May 20 primary, so his term will end in December.