AUSTIN, Texas — Samuel Tinnon, the principal of Casis Elementary School, has been placed on leave, district officials confirmed to KVUE on Tuesday. But, a day later, school leaders said he would be returning.
"The purpose of this email is to notify you that your principal, Mr. Sam Tinnon, will return to Casis Elementary, effective Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020," officials said. "Thank you so much for your patience as we work through our process during this past week."
In a previous letter sent to parents, Associate Superintendent for Elementary Schools Gilbert Hicks said Tinnon was placed on leave on Friday, Oct. 23. He did not provide any other information in that letter.
“Your child’s education, health and well-being remain at the forefront of our work,” wrote Hicks. “Because this is an administrative matter, we cannot offer further details at this time. As always, we appreciate your support and commitment to the students and staff at Casis Elementary School.”
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) confirmed that it has received two complaints this month regarding Tinnon that are currently under jurisdictional review.
Tinnon was selected to receive the Distinguished Principal Award in the African American Heritage Celebration and was a finalist for 2020 district principal of the year, according to KVUE's media partners at the Austin American-Statesman.
Rebecca Phillips was appointed to serve as the interim principal. Phillips worked in the office of the area superintendent as the administrative supervisor of elementary schools prior to stepping in at Casis.
Starting on Nov. 2, the district will reopen all campuses to all students wishing to learn in person.
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