OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska is defending a parent who says the Omaha Public Schools superintendent threatened him with legal action over statements he made at a recent school board meeting.

Parent Alex Gates asked board members in October to create a documented process that lets people formally request an investigation and removal of an ineffective principal.

He told members that parents have sought for years to replace a school principal. He said he emailed Superintendent Mark Evans about the matter but was frustrated with Evans’ reply.

Gates reached out to the ACLU, saying Evans threatened him the day after the board meeting with a lawsuit for defamation or slander. The ACLU wrote a letter warning Evans against taking such action.

A district spokesman said district officials are aware of the ACLU’s letter but are declining to comment.