Concerned citizens are calling for new leadership at the Saint Paul Federation of Educators after a Change.org petition demanding the removal of union President Leah VanDassor surpassed 100 signatures last week.
The petition, titled “Calling for Accountability and Leadership Change in SPFE,” urges VanDassor to step down, citing concerns about public trust and leadership standards following Alpha News reporting that detailed abuse allegations from her adoptive daughter and corroborating police records.
“As parents, caregivers, educators, and community members, we believe that the leadership of the Saint Paul Federation of Educators must reflect the highest standards of accountability, integrity, and child-centered values,” the petition states.
The petition references Alpha News’ reporting, which featured a first-hand account from VanDassor’s adopted daughter, Destiny, now 29.
In that report, Destiny alleged her adoptive father, Russ VanDassor, sexually abused her beginning when she was about eight years old and that Leah VanDassor — then a mandated reporter and St. Paul teacher — knew about the abuse and failed to act.
Alpha News’ investigation included Destiny’s interview and police reports from 2007 to 2013 documenting physical and sexual abuse allegations inside the VanDassor home. Those records include reports of bruising, disclosures from children, and repeated contacts with law enforcement and child protection agencies that did not result in charges at the time.
Russ VanDassor was later convicted in 2019 of attempted criminal sexual conduct involving an 11-year-old boy and sentenced to 72 months in prison.
Petition emphasizes trust, accountability, and child safety
The petition argues that SPFE’s role in supporting educators — and by extension, the children they serve — requires leadership that maintains the confidence of families and the broader community.
“Because of this responsibility, it is essential that all leaders within the organization uphold the trust and confidence of the families and communities they serve,” the petition reads.
While acknowledging that individuals have personal histories, the petition says leadership within an organization focused on education and child well-being must be held to the same standards expected of educators themselves.
“To ensure that SPFE remains aligned with its mission, and to maintain public trust, we are calling for President VanDassor to step down from her position and allow for new leadership that can move the organization forward with clarity and confidence,” the petition states.
“This petition is not about punishment — it is about fairness, safety, accountability, and restoring trust in the systems that support our children and the educators who serve them,” the petition continues. “We respectfully request a change in leadership so that SPFE can continue its important work with the full support of the community.”
To date, Leah VanDassor has not been charged with any crime.
Jenna Gloeb
Jenna Gloeb is an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, media producer, public speaker, and screenwriter. Most recently, she worked as a reporter and on-air host for CCX Media. Jenna is a Minnesota native and resides in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, daughter, and two dogs.
