Israeli Sailing Coach Wins Labor Court Case Over Unlawful School Transfer

Ilan Basik Teshtash, a veteran sailing coach who led Israel's national team in five Olympic Games, recently won a significant ruling at the Tel Aviv Labor Court. Teshtash, 54, had been teaching at the Tel Aviv Maritime Education School since 1994 and coaching the Israeli women's sailing team. In late 2024, he filed a complaint against the school's deputy principal for working abroad during the school year without approval while still receiving a salary.

Following his complaint, Teshtash was summoned for a disciplinary hearing after receiving anonymous complaints from other teachers. In April 2025, a Ministry of Education inspector concluded that Teshtash had not improved his behavior and called for a hearing before a planned transfer. Shortly thereafter, the school decided to transfer him to a maritime school in Bat Yam, citing "incompatibility with the teaching staff or school environment."

Teshtash challenged the transfer in court, arguing the hearing process was flawed and the decision was premeditated retaliation for his complaint against the deputy principal. He claimed ongoing harassment that culminated in his forced relocation after nearly 30 years at the school. The Ministry of Education denied any wrongdoing, asserting the transfer was based on legitimate reasons and accusing Teshtash of harassing staff, including threats and unauthorized recordings.

Judge Reut Shamer Begas ruled in Teshtash's favor, finding serious procedural defects in the hearing, including the failure to present the alleged complaint letters against him. The judge emphasized the importance of transparency, especially given Teshtash's long tenure and founding role at the school. She also accepted his claim of workplace harassment following his complaint, noting increased work hours as evidence. The court concluded the transfer was linked to his complaint, contrary to the Ministry's claims.

The ruling ordered Teshtash's immediate reinstatement at the Tel Aviv school for the upcoming academic year, payment of salary differences for his time in Bat Yam, and compensation of 30,000 shekels for harassment plus 15,000 shekels for legal fees. The case highlights issues of labor rights and administrative fairness within Israeli educational institutions.