Dismissal hearing over Tulsa teacher continued until later this month

Round two of a dismissal hearing ends with no decision on whether a Tulsa teacher will be fired. Booker T-Washington band director Elmer Davis is accused of sexual misconduct. <br><br>The Tulsa School

Wednesday, November 20th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Round two of a dismissal hearing ends with no decision on whether a Tulsa teacher will be fired. Booker T-Washington band director Elmer Davis is accused of sexual misconduct.

The Tulsa School Board heard five more hours of testimony Tuesday night. A former teacher testified he saw Davis with a female student on his lap two years ago. And a former principal said Davis has been written up before, and that he urged Davis to be careful dealing with students.

It was a long, tiring and confrontational night, with attorneys often sparring. The termination hearing was continued. It will reconvene on November 26th.

Before Tuesday night's hearing, Davis, his wife and his attorney stopped by the News on Six for an exclusive interview. "I don't know where these kids are coming from." Davis could only read from a prepared statement, but claimed his innocence.

His wife says the episode has been difficult for their family, but friends and former students have been supportive. Katawna Davis also said she thinks there's an organized campaign to get rid of her husband that reaches to the superintendent's office. "I just think there's a lot more behind this. There's a bigger story and I believe that the administration is using these young ladies as a vessel to get to something else.â€

Mrs. Davis says her husband could still be effective if he returns as a teacher and band instructor.

His attorney promises a court fight if Davis loses his job.