Employee sues Plano ISD for age discrimination

SHERMAN - A Plano Independent School District employee has filed a lawsuit that claims he was fired from position due to his age.

Ben Cowling filed suit against Plano Independent School District on April 30 in the Eastern District of Texas, Sherman Division.

Cowling worked for the school district for approximately 25 years as an electrician. He was terminated on April 6, 2011, at the age of 55.

According to the lawsuit, Cowling was told he was being laid off due to a reduction in force. However, Cowling argues that the reason for the separation was a pretext and he was discharged on the basis of his age.

The defendant is accused of violations of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

The plaintiff is seeking an award of damages for mental anguish, punitive damages, attorney's fees, court costs, and interest.

Cowling is represented by Sherman attorney Ronald R. Huff. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Ron Clark is assigned to the case.

Case No. 4:12-cv-00250