Poway superintendent placed on administrative leave amid investigation
POWAY, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Poway Unified School District Board of Education on Thursday announced it is placing its superintendent on paid administrative leave amid allegations of using intimidation tactics to force players from the Del Norte High School softball team to confess to bullying.
“On November 15, 2023, the Governing Board retained an outside law firm to conduct an independent investigation concerning the Del Norte High School softball program, which included but was not limited to the conduct of staff, students, administrators, and the Superintendent,” said Christine Paik, Chief Communications Officer with Poway Unified School District (PUSD), in a statement.
Paik said the governing board is placing Superintendent Dr. Marian Kim Phelps on administrative leave, effective immediately, “in an effort to avoid distraction and to ensure continued focus on the District’s business and commitment to serving our students and community.”
Flood, wind advisories issued for San Diego as winter storm arrives
On Jan. 18, parents and students rallied against Phelps at a board of education meeting. The softball teammates pushed back, saying they were not bullying and want the superintendent punished.
The incident came to a head when the superintendent’s daughter was named MVP of the team and alleged her teammates weren’t clapping for her. Now with lawsuits filed and two coaches expecting to be fired, the softball banquet incident has become a possible six-figure expense for the Poway school district.
“As the investigation is still pending, and student and personnel matters are at issue, the Board is unable to provide further comment at this time,” Paik said.
FOX 5’s Jaime Chambers contributed to this story.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
