West G Middle School Principal on Leave Since July
West Geauga Middle School Principal Ron Dahlhofer has been on a “paid administrative leave of absence” since July 11 due to an ongoing investigation into potential misconduct.
West Geauga Middle School Principal Ron Dahlhofer has been on a “paid administrative leave of absence” since July 11 due to an ongoing investigation into potential misconduct.
Dahlhofer was ordered to work remotely on home assignment during this time, said Superintendent Richard Markwardt in a letter to Dahlhofer obtained through a public records request.
“During these hours, you must make yourself available to meet with the board or administration should the need arise,” he wrote. “If you are contacted by me during work hours, you are expected to answer the call or promptly respond to the text or email.”
During an Aug. 8 school board meeting, the West Geauga Schools Board of Education passed a resolution appointing Lindsey Elementary School Principal Meagan Bellan as the substitute middle school principal effective Aug. 9 on a temporary as-needed basis.
While Dahlhofer is on home assignment, he is not allowed to discuss the ongoing investigation into potential misconduct with any district staff member, student and/or district parent.
“You are to continue to perform your duties as West Geauga Middle School principal from home via electronic communication and/or by phone. You are not to be on school property while on home assignment, unless instructed to do so by me,” said Markwardt. “If you refuse to comply with these directives, your actions may be deemed insubordination and could subject you to disciplinary action, up to and including the potential termination of your employment contract(s).”
Markwardt declined to comment further at this time due to the ongoing investigation.
In other district news, school board members are expected to accept the resignation of and enter into a separation agreement and release with Director of Operations and Capital Improvements Jay Bishop during tonight’s (Sept. 12) regular meeting. Bishop formerly served as principal of West Geauga High School from 2013 through July 2021.
