“Inappropriate” video prompts APS to place teacher on administrative leave

AKRON, Ohio. An Akron high school teacher is on administrative leave as the district begins an investigation into his conduct. This comes after a video of what is being called an “inappropriate social media post” surfaced in Akron Public Schools.

News 5 chooses not to show a TikTok video that appears to show a girl dancing strangely with an older man.

“I don’t think it’s appropriate. I don’t think so. This is madness. Although he is enjoying himself. Look at him. He is having fun,” said Les, who refused to give his last name, about what was shown in the video.

APS has confirmed that the man in the video is a teacher at Garfield Community Learning Center (CLC). The secondary school directory lists a social studies teacher.

“You should know better. You are always with the children. You have to know who is a child and who is not a child. That’s all I’m saying,” said Les, whose nephew is a junior at Garfield CLC.

The district has not confirmed the age of the girl in the video or identified her as an APS student.

In a statement to News 5 on Monday, an APS spokesperson said:

“On the evening of October 27, 2024, Akron Public Schools became aware of an unacceptable social media post involving a staff member. The district took immediate action to respond to the issue, including placing the employee on administrative leave and notifying the appropriate authorities. Due to the ongoing investigation, the district is declining to provide specific details or comment on the identities of those involved at this time. Akron Public Schools takes the safety and well-being of all students and staff very seriously. We will continue to cooperate with the investigative authorities in every possible way. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Chief of Staff Angela Carter at [email protected].”

The director of Garfield CLC also sent the following letter to families:

Dear Garfield CLC Families!

I want to update you on a recent incident involving an employee that we reported via social media. The district is aware of the situation and is taking immediate measures to resolve it.

Please be assured that we take such matters very seriously, as the safety and well-being of our students is always our highest priority. We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all members of our school community. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. We are here to support you and your children. If you have any doubts or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely, Kathryn Rodocker, Director, Garfield Campus Community Learning Center

While the incident is under investigation, some area families told News 5 they believe the video speaks for itself. Les said that in the digital age he wasn’t surprised to see it posted on social media, but he was concerned that it happened at all.

“I’m shocked because he should know better. But I’m not really surprised by that, no,” he said.

APS said it is conducting an internal investigation into the incident and has notified the appropriate authorities. Akron police said the department is aware of the situation, but it has not yet been turned into a criminal investigation.

The Akron Education Association declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.