Controversy over the new principal of Joanna Connell Elementary being charged with driving under the influence earlier this year.
Principal Gavin Roddy, Erie Nows Now learned was officially hired by the Erie School District, was charged after crashing his car in Swanton, Vermont, on February 26th.
He also refused to take a blood alcohol test.
Roddy was principal of Berkshire Elementary School at the time of the charges and was placed on administrative leave.
Roddy has a hearing for these charges in Vermont in September.
Staff of Joanna Connell Elementary were told that Roddy would be taking over as principal in an announcement.
The Erie School District released a statement on the matter:
“We are aware of information circulating on social media regarding a prospective administrator and an out-of-state arrest. We understand the concerns this has raised and have been in communication with the individual regarding this matter.
The individual has been highly recommended and is qualified to serve as an elementary school principal. Based on the information currently available, the allegations do not affect the individual’s ability to perform the duties of the position. We can confirm that all required criminal background checks and clearances were completed in accordance with applicable law and District policy. If additional information becomes available, the District will review it and take any appropriate action.
We ask our school community to allow Mr. Roddy the opportunity to relocate to the City, become established, and share his perspective.
We take our responsibility to our students, staff, and community seriously. The District remains committed to thorough due diligence in all hiring decisions and to evaluating information as it becomes available. Our focus is, and will remain, on decisions that serve the best interests of our students, staff, and the broader school community.”