Olentangy High School principal, resigned after a sexual harassment complaint.
Robert Griffiths was the principal at Olentangy High School for 6 years and had been with the District for a total of 22 years before he resigned, previously serving as the assistant principal of Liberty High School.
Original Story
On Dec. 9th, 2023, Griffiths was placed on paid administrative leave after a fellow employee filed a sexual harassment complaint against him. After this a Title IX investigation on Robert Griffiths took place. Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities.
Accusations
Robert Griffiths was accused of making derogatory comments towards an employee that began back when she first started working at Olentangy High School in July 2022. These comments include referring to her as a "pussy" and "cunt" at least 50 times. He was accused of making similar comments to and about others. It is alleged in the complaint that Griffiths mocked the efforts to create a Women's leadership program by the district and the employees participating in it, as he would purposefully schedule meetings to restrict her ability to participate. The complaint also alleges other aggressive behaviors and profanity directed at the employee constituting misconduct.
Placed On Leave
Griffiths was placed on leave due to these accusations on Oct. 9th. The district put out a message that said the situation did not concern the safety of the students nor would the school's academic integrity be affected. In the message, the district wrote,
Olentangy Local Schools
High School Principal Robert Griffiths has been placed on paid administrative leave, effective October 9th, 2023. The District is conducting an ongoing investigation. Please be assured this situation does not concern the safety of students or affect academic integrity at OHS. Olentangy Schools is committed to our mission to facilitate maximum learning for every student. The district cannot comment further at this time.
Finally on Dec. 12th, during the investigation, Griffiths resigned.
District's Statement
On December 1st, 2023, at 3:30 p.m., Superintendent Todd Meyer sent an email letting parents know that the Olentangy school board planned to accept Robert Griffiths resignation at its meeting on Dec. 12th. In the email, Meyer wrote,
Todd Meyer
We are aware these past two months have been challenging for the Olentangy High School staff, students, and parents with uncertainty regarding Mr. Griffiths absence and the associated investigation. To protect the privacy of those involved, we cannot offer further details of the investigation.
Todd Meyer Email
Olentangy Schools is committed to a school environment that allows our staff to flourish professionally, create and maintain positive relationships, and remain focused on facilitating maximum learning for every student. Professional behavior should model the behaviors we expect of our students.
Meyer also wrote. The district stated it planned to hire an interim principal and that Trond Smith, former Olentangy High School principal, and director of secondary schools, will continue as the principal for the rest of the school year.
Sources
Anonymous
Verified community post