COTTAGE GROVE — Kevin Herington, Cottage Grove High School principal, was placed on paid administrative leave last week, with South Lane School District citing “personal circumstances,” in a letter addressed to to community and signed by Brian McCasline, interim superintendent.
Chris Wells, assistant principal, is serving as acting principal to, “ensure a smooth continuation of our school’s operations,” McCasline said.
Wells has been serving the District as assistant principal since 2019, though his service to the school dates back to 2005, when he became assistant varsity coach, according to his online business profile. Wells also teaches special education, graphic design, and yearbook at the school.
Wells declined to answer how he plans to facilitate a smooth transition in the principal’s absence, and how this will affect other roles within the administration.
McCasline said in the news release that the District’s “focus remains on maintaining a calm, safe, and supportive environment for all students.”
McCasline declined to answer further comments, including next steps, an anticipated timeline, and when the public can expect to hear more.
“We don’t have any further comment at this time, as it is a personnel issue,” McCasline told The Chronicle.
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