An Alabama lunch lady was fired after collecting donations to help feed students, with school officials citing dishonesty and overstepping job duties as reasons for her termination.
Avette Dunn, a cafeteria worker in Shelby County, Alabama, had been accepting donations to cover lunch costs for students, aiming to ensure no child went hungry, WDBJ reported.
However, school officials claimed that no student at the elementary school had ever been denied a meal. The issue escalated when Dunn was questioned about her actions, and officials cited her lack of honesty during the inquiry as a key factor in her dismissal.
On Tuesday, the Shelby County School Board held a hearing on Dunn's case and decided to terminate her employment. During her testimony, Dunn admitted to her actions but insisted her only motivation was to help children.
She expressed regret over the situation, stating, "I made a mistake and I think I should be able to go back to my job."
Her lawyers argued that no clear rule prohibits employees from soliciting donations, pointing out that teachers frequently seek contributions for classroom supplies through online wish lists and fundraisers.
While some believe her actions were inappropriate, others see her as a compassionate worker unfairly punished for trying to help.
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