Kelly Latham, a Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools employee for over twenty years, has filed a lawsuit against the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Nekesha Burnette, the principal of Antioch High School.
The claims are serious: interference with her job, violations of the Tennessee Human Rights Act, and emotional distress.
The Parties
– Kelly Latham: A long-time employee of the MNPS school system, she has served since 2003, devoted to her students and their welfare.
– Nekesha Burnette: The principal is accused of fleeing her post during the school shooting and failing to support Latham following the school shooting incident.
– The Metropolitan Government of Nashville is a local governmental entity subject to suit in this action under the Tennessee Human Rights Act (“THRA”). Antioch High School is owned, managed, and controlled by the Davidson County Board of Education d/b/a Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (“MNPS”), which is part of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville (“Metro”).
The Incident
On January 22, 2025, a fatal school shooting occurred at Antioch High. Latham was there in her capacity as vice principal. She assisted students, helping them escape and calling for help. Burnette, however, reportedly fled the scene. Her absence raised troubling questions about school leadership.
Aftermath
The shooting left Latham with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She suffered following the shooting. She claims Burnette’s insecure and unprofessional behavior only made the situation worse. Public outbursts and threats from Burnette turned the work environment toxic, worsening Latham’s condition.
Employment Struggles
In the aftermath, Latham sought a transfer, hoping to address PTSD and work environment. However, the school administration offered little support. Despite her respected professional reputation, she was removed from her administrative role without explanation on May 2, 2025. She felt pressured to reapply for her position, a process that she believed was unjust.
The Claims
Latham believes Burnette acted with malice, damaging her reputation and blocking her career. The lawsuit demands accountability and seeks:
– Back pay for lost wages
– Damages for emotional suffering
– Punitive damages against Burnette
– Legal fees
As this case unfolds, it raises important questions about school and district leadership, as well as support for educators in distress. The outcome may set a precedent for how Nashville’s schools respond to trauma or school shootings in the future.
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