By PSA Newsroom Staff
Marlboro County, S.C. — A former Marlboro County School District principal has settled a federal lawsuit alleging disability discrimination, medical leave violations, and improper job action under state law. Court records confirm the case has been dismissed following a settlement, though the terms remain private.
Dr. Dionne Vance, who worked for the district from February 2020 through May 10, 2024, filed the lawsuit in October 2024 in U.S. District Court. She named the Marlboro County School District (MCSD) as the defendant.
According to the court’s dismissal order, both sides notified the judge that the matter had been resolved.
“The Court… having been advised by counsel for the parties that the above action has been settled, IT IS ORDERED that this action is hereby dismissed without costs and without prejudice.”
A dismissal “without prejudice” means the case may be reopened within 60 days if the settlement is not finalized.
Claims Raised in the Lawsuit: In her complaint, Vance alleged the school district violated multiple laws designed to protect employees.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Vance claimed the district engaged in unlawful employment practices under the Americans with Disabilities Act, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
The lawsuit alleged the district:
- Perceived her as disabled
- Failed to provide reasonable accommodation
- Discharged or demoted her because of her disability or the need to accommodate it
The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Vance also alleged violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act, 29 U.S.C. § 2601 et seq.
According to the lawsuit, the district failed to properly designate qualifying medical leave and later demoted her when she attempted to return to work. The FMLA guarantees eligible employees unpaid, job-protected leave for serious medical conditions and requires employers to follow strict notice and reinstatement rules.
South Carolina Teacher Dismissal Act: The complaint further cited violations of South Carolina’s Teacher Dismissal Act, S.C. Code Ann. § 59-25-430 et seq., which governs how educators and administrators may be disciplined, reassigned, or removed.
Vance alleged the district did not follow the procedural protections required under state law when her employment status changed.
District Response: Marlboro County School District officials denied most of the allegations outlined in the lawsuit. District representatives declined to discuss details, citing the ongoing legal process at the time.
Settlement Details Not Released
While the case has been settled, no financial terms or conditions have been made public. Court records do not indicate whether the settlement included monetary compensation, reinstatement, or other remedies.
A Broader Local Context
Marlboro County has faced ongoing challenges related to staffing, leadership stability, and public trust in local institutions. While the settlement closes this specific legal case, it also highlights the pressures facing rural school districts and the importance of compliance with employee protection laws.
What the Case Shows
At its core, the lawsuit centered on workplace protections meant to ensure employees are treated fairly during health-related absences and employment decisions. Federal and state laws like the ADA, FMLA, and Teacher Dismissal Act exist to prevent abrupt or unsupported job actions and to provide clear procedures when disputes arise.
With the settlement finalized and the case dismissed, the court will take no further action unless the agreement falls apart within the allowed timeframe.
