The District is issuing the following statement to provide information to the community regarding a personnel matter at Laguna Elementary School.

The principal of Laguna Elementary School will return to his post Tuesday, Feb. 18, following a three-day suspension without pay for creating barriers that discouraged an employee from reporting under A.R.S. § 13-3620. The principal, Keith Powell, had been on paid administrative leave since Feb. 6, while the matter was under investigation.

“The District cannot tolerate non-compliance of mandatory reporting requirements,” said Kim Cumby, executive director of Human Resource Services. “The safety of our children and our schools is paramount, as is complying with state laws and District policy. This administration continues to take these matters seriously, and when we become aware of possible reporting violations, we promptly investigate, evaluate the circumstances, and take appropriate action.”

“We know that we are held accountable by the public, and in turn, we hold our employees accountable. We also recognize that Board Policy and statute require that employees receive certain due process rights. The District is obligated to and therefore will follow those requirements. Because personnel matters are both internal and confidential, we must be prudent in commenting on particulars of an investigation.”

“Dr. Powell said he respects the process and is eager to return to his school and his students. We look forward having him back on campus next week,” Mrs. Cumby said. “The District appreciates Dr. Powell’s strengths, concern for all students, and long-term service to the Scottsdale school community. The documentation in his file demonstrates his past commitment of impeccable leadership and service.”