Parents Message 8. 26. 26

Hello to All in the Northwest Community:
 
As you may be aware, we have been working through a very serious and challenging situation, and I wanted everyone to now hear about this directly from me.

Allegations about our former band director, Stephen Imler, are shocking and upsetting, and we are fully cooperating with the law enforcement investigation. Upon being informed by Canal Fulton Police of these allegations on August 16, 2026, Mr. Imler was placed on leave immediately on August 17, 2026. He has not been in any of our buildings since and he will not be back.

We do not go into detail about personnel matters, and this is an active law enforcement investigation into a very sensitive matter. We will respect the confidentiality of that investigation and the privacy of those involved. I can share that a previous investigation in April, 2026 by police involving the former band director was closed after the allegations were determined to be unfounded. When new information led to an investigation being opened, we immediately placed the former band director on leave.

As we have shared with our band parents, Rob Newman, a retired, veteran and respected music teacher who most recently worked at Canton City Schools, is stepping in to lead our band. Middle school music teacher Kim Good, who’d previously worked with our band for several years, also has volunteered to pitch in. I have been heartened both by the determination shown by our student band members, who have continued to practice and perform at a high level, and by several of our band parents, who have expressed support for the actions we have taken. We are committed to providing the best possible experience for our music students and band members and we have the people in place to do that.

I want to reemphasize that nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our students. If anyone is subject to or witnesses inappropriate conduct in our schools, we want to know about it. Tell a building principal or other trusted school representative. Use our Say Something Anonymous Reporting System. Every report will be taken seriously and will be investigated.

We talk often about building resilience in our students. In the most challenging times, we will lean into that part of our identity. Protecting our students is the collective responsibility of our schools, families and communities, and I know you will continue to do your part.

Sincerely,