Lakeland trustees placed Superintendent Rusty Taylor on administrative leave Monday but did not say why, according to an email sent to community members Tuesday morning.
Taylor was hired in June after the district’s previous superintendent retired early and the assistant superintendent resigned. The change in leadership is one of several issues facing the district after two failed supplemental levies and years of contentious school board meetings. Trustees also plan to ask patrons in May to increase their property taxes to pay for a $15 million plant facility levy.
“We understand this decision may create questions regarding the future of the Lakeland Joint School District,” the email from trustees reads. “We want to assure you the Board is committed to ensuring a safe, professional, and successful learning and working environment for both students and staff. As this is a personnel matter, we cannot provide further details at this time.”…