Village officials called Monday for an investigation into the hiring of a teacher who is facing seven felony counts of attempted murder and a felony assault charge who works at a Lyons middle school.
Andres “Andrew” Rodriguez, 36, was involved in a traffic 2017 fight where he shot a motorist seven times with a conceal carry weapon. His lawyer said it was self defense.
A year later he was hired by Lyons District 103. Officials and parents demanded a probe at a press conference as well as big changes in hiring practices. They believe that the administration has failed the students and most recently, the community, at George Washington Middle School where Rodriguez is a sixth grade English teacher.
"Our children are obviously at danger," said Stephany Gutierrez, whose sister is a George Washington Middle School student.
State Sen. Marty Sandoval plans strengthened legislation.
"Failure of disclosure should be immediate grounds for dismissal," Sandoval said.
Lyons trustee Michael Bennett expressed dismay at the issue.
"What in the world is going on in our district," he asked.
Rodriguez was hired by two other districts prior to the shooting, but suspended when the information became public. His case is still pending.
"If they were your children what would you demand," Sandoval asked.
Sandoval also called for a new law to force disclosure of criminal charges of school district employees and resignation of the district's two interim superintendents.
The board said its Monday meeting it only became aware of the charges on Oct. 18th.
Rodriguez has been placed on leave until the board can conclude its review.
