American Federation of Teachers v. Board of Education
Opinion
Opinion
Stephens, J.
The Board of Education of the Pasadena Unified School District (hereinafter Board) appeals from a judgment granting a peremptory writ of mandate in favor of respondent Sidney D. Knowlton, a former certificated employee of the Pasadena Unified School District (hereinafter District).
The issue presented on appeal is whether the governing board of a school district may validly delegate to its district superintendent the authority to accept the resignations of district employees.
Facts
The essential facts are not in dispute. Respondent, Knowlton, was originally employed as a teacher by the District in September 1975. On October 18, 1977, Knowlton sent a memorandum to the district superintendent, Ramon Cortines, stating his resignation from employment with the District. The memorandum stated: “I hereby resign my job at Muir High School, this day Oct. 18, 1977.
“I thank you for the opportunity to teach at this school, and wish the school and the district my sincere best.
“I intend to follow a writing career and will need much of my time for research and composition.
“Sincerely
Sidney D. Knowlton”
Superintendent Cortines (hereinafter Cortines), in response, sent a…