Copyright fox2now
KIRKWOOD, Mo. — The Kirkwood School District faces an employment discrimination lawsuit filed by former Westchester Elementary School Principal Robert “Bo” Ricker. Ricker claims the district subjected him to gender discrimination and retaliation that forced his resignation in April 2024. The lawsuit, filed Oct. 24 in St. Louis County Circuit Court, accuses the district of violating the Missouri Human Rights Act. It suggests Ricker was paid less than female administrators, subjected to a harassing, discriminatory work environment, and further claims he was discharged because of his sex. Ricker, represented by the Elster Law Office, served as Westchester’s principal from 2016 until he resigned in April 2024. According to the lawsuit Ricker’s resignation came after he experienced years of alleged discrimination dating back to October 2020. Following his resignation in 2024, parents voiced both support and concern. “He helped us in so many ways,” Saman Ibrahim, a Westchester parent, said. “He was open, understanding and welcoming.” Court documents claim Rickers has suffered damages because of what happened, including loss of past and future wages and benefits, a damaged and diminished career, and emotional distress.
