Manhattan D114 Employee On Leave Amidst Internal Investigation: Admin

MANHATTAN, IL — An employee of Manhattan District 114 has been placed on paid leave while officials investigate an alleged violation of district policy, the Superintendent said in a notice to parents Wednesday.

"The District was made aware yesterday of allegations that a school employee had engaged in activity that did not align with board policy," Superintendent Ron Pacheco said in the notice. "Based upon those allegations, the District acted quickly to begin an investigation into the allegations and to take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our students."

Citing a personnel matter, district officials declined to identify the employee, their role within the district, and the subject matter of the allegation. When contacted by Patch Wednesday evening, the District declined to issue a public statement on the incident.

Sources have told Patch that the employee is a physical education teacher at Manhattan Junior High. Parents have confirmed the teacher was escorted off school premises Wednesday.

The District said it will conduct an investigation "so we can decide on appropriate next steps.

"The safety and well-being of our students are always paramount in our District," Pacheco wrote to parents, "and we will remain vigilant to proactively address any concerns that are brought to our attention."

There is no police involvement at this time, as confirmed by Manhattan Police Chief Ryan Gulli.