DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The Palm Beach County School Board is set to vote Wednesday on firing a Delray Beach elementary school art teacher following a district investigation that substantiated allegations of ethical misconduct and poor professional judgment. The termination of JaMauri Hawkins, who taught at Pine Grove Elementary School, is on the agenda for the April 15, 2026, School Board meeting in West Palm Beach.
The district’s Office of Professional Standards opened an investigation into Hawkins on or about January 6, 2026, based on two allegations: Ethical Misconduct and Failure to Exercise Best Professional Judgment. According to documents released by the district, both allegations were substantiated at the conclusion of the investigation. Superintendent Michael J. Burke formally notified Hawkins of his recommendation for termination in a letter dated March 3, 2026.
The violations cited include multiple district policies related to discrimination and harassment, code of ethics, and conditions of employment, as well as Florida Rule 6A-10.081 governing the Principles of Professional Conduct for the Education Profession. Burke’s letter noted that “just cause” exists to support the termination, which the superintendent says can be backed by clear and convincing evidence. It was not immediately clear what Mr. Hawkins is specifically accused of doing.
If the board approves the termination as expected, Hawkins’s employment would end effective Friday, May 1, 2026. The district has recommended a 15-day unpaid suspension beginning April 16 pending the board’s action. Hawkins has the right to appeal the decision, either through a grievance process under the Classroom Teachers Association Collective Bargaining Agreement or by requesting a hearing before the Division of Administrative Hearings.
