LHS teacher resigns amid allegations of inappropriate conduct

LHS teacher resigns amid allegations of inappropriate conduct

By Alan Neushwander, Contributing Writer.

LUDINGTON — A high school teacher from the Ludington Area School District has resigned following an investigation into inappropriate conduct.

“Once the district became aware of the allegations, the employee was placed on non-disciplinary, paid administrative leave pending further investigation,” according to a memo sent to parents from Dr. Kyle Corlett, superintendent of Ludington Area School District.

The employee, who was not named in the memo, has resigned. Speaking on conditions of anonymity, sources close to the school district confirmed the employee was a high school teacher was accused of allegedly having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student. Corlett has neither confirmed nor denied if the allegations were proven.

“The district worked cooperatively with law enforcement agencies,” the letter stated. “Ludington Police Department conducted an investigation that led to no charges being pursued against the employee. The district initiated our own fact-finding investigation and has concluded the fact-finding process.”

Corlett’s memo went on to say, “Although this employment matter is resolved, the School Board wants to reiterate its commitment to the school community by providing a safe environment for its students.” Corlett encourages all students, staff members, and community members to report any potential harm or criminal acts directed toward students, school employees, or school property to the district’s administration.

Two employee resignations and four employee retirements were accepted by the board of education during its regular meeting Monday. Resignations included high school teacher Evan Kroeze and LHS-At-Risk Coordinator Kirk Walden. The board also accepted the retirements of elementary teachers Thad Shank and Judy Bussey, high school teachers Deb Follrath, and kitchen staff member Debora Roberts. The board also hired Tiffany Coughlan and Jacquelyn Burdo as student aides.

Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief, also contributed to this story.

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