Hillsboro teacher reinstated and reassigned

After months of hearing public comments regarding a teacher who had been placed on administrative leave, it was reported to the Hillsboro City Schools Board of Education that the teacher has been reinstated, and reassigned to a different job within the district.

During the board's monthly meeting Wednesday, Hillsboro Superintendent Rick Earley reported that the teacher, who was a former coach with the district, "has been reinstated and reassigned to teach health and PE (physical education) at FRS Connection."

Earley said that because it was a personnel issue, he could not comment beyond that.

The teacher had been placed on leave in November, and earlier this year his family members, former students and community members began attending the board meetings, praising his work in education and asking for his reinstatement.

Although the teacher's name had been stated publicly numerous times during the meetings, The Highland County Press has elected not to name him, as there have been no charges against him.

Earley had previously said that only limited information can be released, as it is a personnel issue. It has not been stated what the allegations were against the teacher, but Earley has said, "If there is an allegation, it will be investigated." 

Local law enforcement had said they have not been asked to investigate any matters at the district regarding an educator.

Earley had not said who was investigating the allegations, but clarified that there are different types of investigations. 
 
"In education, there are legal aspects, and there are ethical aspects," Earley said. "We have to go by the Ohio Educators Code of Conduct. That may not be breaking the law. In education, we're held to a totally different level than people in other professions. If it is ethical, law enforcement is not going to be involved. That is not their job." 

Three people spoke out on behalf of the teacher Wednesday.

In other business: 

• The board voted to approve the district's five-year forecast. Early said, "The board had a chance to look over it prior to the meeting, and it looks very good."

• The board voted to authorize the purchase of two school buses.

• With funds being split between the board of education and the band boosters, the board voted to to approve the purchase of new band uniforms, which Earley said, "Will be an upgrade for our fine arts department."

• The board recognized student board member Jessica Aber, who is graduating at the end of the month.

• The next board meeting will be held June 27, to close out the fiscal year.