Before Hollie Smith was removed from her position as the top administrator at the Academy @ Shawnee last week, she was under investigation for misconduct and creating a toxic work environment, according to employees with knowledge of the inquiry.
The Kentucky Center for Investigative Reporting spoke to five current and former Shawnee staff members, including three with direct knowledge of the nature of the investigation. The employees requested anonymity for fear of retaliation and because they were not authorized to speak to the press while the investigation is ongoing.
Jefferson County Public Schools spokesperson Carolyn Callahan told KyCIR she could not comment on the nature of the investigation but confirmed that it is ongoing. Smith is still employed by the district. Callahan also confirmed employees’ claims that former Academy @ Shawnee high school principal Joni Britt is under investigation, as well. Britt resigned on May 15, according to the Courier Journal…