Columbia High School Principal Frank Sanchez has been placed on administrative leave, according to sources and confirmed by three Board of Education members.
Acting Superintendent Dr. Kevin Gilbert made the announcement that Mr. Sanchez was on leave on Tuesday morning at an all-faculty meeting that had been called the day before, according to a teacher present at the meeting.
Asst. Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction Ann Bodnar will lead the school in the interim.
Bodnar spoke after Gilbert’s announcement and acknowledged that CHS faculty has been through many changes over the years, the teacher said. Bodnar said she would provide support and stability to Gilbert during this time of transition, noting that she was a CHS alum herself and very committed to the school and the community.
Although communications director Paul Brubaker confirmed Sanchez was on leave in forwarding a letter sent to the school community (see letter below), Village Green has reached out for further detail; we will update this article when we receive more information.
BOE members Qawi Telesford and Arun Vadlamani sent the following statement to Village Green:
We express our full support for Acting Superintendent Gilbert’s recent decision to put Principal Sanchez on administrative leave. We understand the gravity of this situation and recognize that this decision may cause discomfort and raise questions for many students, parents and members of our community.
We also appreciate the other district leaders who are working above and beyond their regular duties to ensure the smooth running of our High School.
In order to move forward with clarity and resolve, we hope for a swift resolution. During this time, we urge patience as the administration addresses this matter.
BOE President Kaitlin Wittleder later sent the following statement:
The Board appreciates and supports the joint statement written by Arun & Qawi. I would emphasize that Ms. Bodnar, as an alumna of Columbia High School, and a beloved former Principal, has the unique ability to lead the high school through this transitional period. Her dedication to our District is unparalleled and we appreciate her service to our CHS students and educators during this time.
See a letter sent to the school community below:
