McCune Law Group Champions Employee Protection in Adelanto School District Claims

In a significant move advocating for employee protection and workplace safety within educational institutions, McCune Law Group APC has filed government tort claims against the Adelanto Elementary School District. These claims, brought on behalf of three long-serving executive assistants, allege that the district failed to adequately protect them from harassment and retaliation after they secured a workplace violence restraining order against a District Board member.

This case underscores a vital conversation about the responsibilities of school districts not only to their students but also to their dedicated staff. A safe and respectful working environment is fundamental for educators and support staff, allowing them to focus on their crucial roles in fostering learning and development for children. When such environments are compromised, it can have far-reaching effects on the entire school community.

Advocating for Long-Serving Employees

According to information released by McCune Law Group, the three claimants—Ireri Peralta, Xenia Lovett, and Sandra Alamillo—collectively possess decades of service to the Adelanto Elementary School District. Their claims detail a challenging period spanning approximately five years, during which they allegedly experienced harassment from Michael Krause, who served first as Superintendent and later as a Board member.

The situation escalated when, in April 2024, the women reportedly brought their concerns to the District's Human Resources department. Subsequently, they pursued and obtained a workplace violence restraining order against Krause from the San Bernardino Superior Court on March 19, 2025. This legal step was a crucial measure to ensure their safety and well-being within their professional lives.

Allegations of Inadequate Protection and Retaliation

Despite the court-issued restraining order, the claims filed by McCune Law Group assert that the Adelanto Elementary School District allegedly failed to consistently enforce its provisions, particularly regarding distance and security, following Krause's election to the Board in the fall of 2025. For example, according to the claims, at a July 2025 conference, Ms. Alamillo reported that Krause sat behind her at lunch, and when she reported the violation, she was questioned by police rather than Krause.

The claims further allege that each woman faced retaliation after reporting the conduct and pursuing the restraining order. This alleged retaliation included exclusion from Board meetings, inconsistent security accompaniment, and reductions in job duties or compensation. McCune Law Group also states that the claims highlight instances where Krause allegedly told the District's Interim Superintendent he was "not done" with the women, and that the District canceled outside counsel's contract after Board members reportedly said the firm "went after" Krause, while simultaneously arranging counsel for him in the same matter.

Joe Richardson of McCune Law Group, counsel for the three claimants, stated, "A court ordered Krause to stay away from these women. This claim alleges that their success getting a restraining order made them targets. Despite the order, the District spent its resources protecting him from them, not the other way around. According to these claims, the District let them down at every turn after they came forward." This powerful statement underscores the core of the claims: a perceived institutional failure to uphold a court order and protect its employees.

The Broader Impact on Education and Learning Environments

While this case directly addresses employee protection, its implications extend to the entire educational ecosystem. When staff members feel unsafe or unsupported, it can create a ripple effect that impacts morale, productivity, and ultimately, the quality of education provided. A district that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its staff demonstrates a commitment to creating a positive and conducive learning environment for everyone.

For parents, these kinds of legal actions can raise important questions about the overall governance and operational integrity of school districts. Ensuring that school environments are safe for both students and the adults who educate and support them is paramount. Teachers, in particular, often navigate complex professional dynamics, and knowing that their employer will uphold legal protections is crucial for their ability to thrive and focus on their students' academic and personal growth.

For students, a healthy school environment means access to dedicated teachers and staff who can perform their duties without undue stress or fear. Resources like COSMIQ, a free voice-driven AI tutor, aim to support K-12 students in their learning journey, and such tools are most effective when coupled with a stable and supportive school infrastructure where staff can excel.

McCune Law Group's Commitment to Accountability

Each claim filed asserts violations of Title IX, FEHA, Labor Code Section 1102.5, and negligence under the Government Claims Act, seeking damages in excess of $35,000. These claims were submitted on July 30, 2026, and according to McCune Law Group, the allegations have not yet been adjudicated, and the District has not responded.

McCune Law Group APC has a long-standing history of advocating for consumers and employees. For over 35 years, the organization states it has worked to address corporate and institutional misconduct, recovering significant amounts for clients in various types of litigation. Their work in cases like this highlights their dedication to ensuring accountability and protecting the rights of individuals within their workplaces.

This ongoing legal action by McCune Law Group serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of robust legal protections and diligent enforcement within all workplaces, especially those dedicated to public service and education. It underscores the message that no employee should face retaliation for seeking safety and justice, and that institutions have a fundamental duty to protect their staff.