AMHERST, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — A Superior Court Judge has ruled to uphold the arbitrator’s decision to reinstate Amherst Regional School District School Counselor Delinda Dykes, who was accused of making inappropriate comments regarding students’ genders in 2023.
The district appealed the decision and although they did not win their appeal, Superintendent Dr. E Xiomara Herman released a statement saying the district will continue to ensure every student and staff member is safe and supported.
From the Amherst Regional School District:
Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools Respond to Appeals Judge’s Decision.
Amherst, MA — The Amherst-Pelham Regional School District was informed yesterday that the Superior Court Judge has issued a decision in the case involving School counselor Delinda Dykes. The Judge did not make independent findings regarding Ms. Dykes’ actions. Rather, the Court determined that it was legally bound to accept the arbitrator’s factual findings. Based on those findings, the Judge upheld the arbitrator’s decision. The district is working closely with legal counsel and the Regional School Committee to determine appropriate next steps.
Superintendent Dr. E. Xiomara Herman reaffirms the district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student and staff member is safe, supported, and feels a strong sense of belonging in our schools.
“Regardless of the next steps, our focus remains where it must always be, on our students,” said Dr. Herman. “We are committed to ensuring that this continues to be a school system where every child is honored, respected, and given the opportunity to be their best self. We have strong School Committee policies — including Policy ACAA, our Commitment to Identity-Affirming School Culture and Staff Accountability, and Policy JICFB on Bullying, Harassment, and Intimidation. We are deeply engaged in updating our procedures to strengthen how we uphold those commitments each day. Our work is ongoing, and our purpose is clear: to protect, support, and elevate every student in our care.”
