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Ohio high school principal on leave after election message to staff

Online Niel November 15, 2024

The principal of Olentangy Orange High School was placed on administrative leave Thursday while the district investigates a newsletter he sent to school staff following President-elect Donald Trump’s victory earlier this month.

Olentangy Orange Director Monica Asher has been placed on administrative leave as a result of a newsletter she sent to school staff on Sunday that began with a reflection on the outcome of the November election. In the letter, she said she had “struggled this week to find the right words” about what to say about the result.

“I can’t write a message that pretends the election didn’t happen, especially when so many of you are struggling with how to move forward,” Asher said. “I know you’re struggling with how to move forward with your students who are afraid, but also how to move forward with colleagues who don’t share your views.”

Olentangy Superintendent Todd Meyer said in letters sent to staff and parents Thursday that Asher has been placed on administrative leave and noted that the leave “is a procedural step to protect the integrity of any district investigation.”

“Olentangy Schools is committed to creating a welcoming environment that promotes a culture of inclusive excellence for all students, families and staff,” the district said in a statement.

Asher, who first came to the district in 2022, was named the 2022-2023 Ohio Principal of the Year and is the current president of the Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators, according to her staff biography.

Assistant Principal Ellie Ellis will serve as principal in the interim.

Principal’s newsletter: School will continue to be a place where ‘all students find safety’

Asher’s letter says that in the wake of the election, she “saw pain, uncertainty and division” and was “not entirely sure how to tell you how to move forward.”

“What I can tell you is that I am here with you and my values have not changed,” Asher wrote. “I recognize that leadership is tested in difficult times.”

She also emphasized in the letter that Olentangy Orange High School will continue to be a place where “students, all students, find safety.”

“It will continue to be a place that not only values diversity, but celebrates it,” Asher said. “Orange will continue to be a place where showing compassion and respect for those around us is a priority, where we recognize the humanity, dignity and worth of every person we meet.”

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