The Edison Elementary School principal under investigation by police and school officials over alleged misconduct involving a student has chosen to retire, a Salt Lake City School District official said Wednesday.
Principal Laurie Lacy was placed on leave earlier this month following an allegation involving a boy at the school. Investigations are underway by the district and a detective with the Salt Lake City Police Department's special victims unit.
"Laurie Lacy has decided to retire, and will not be returning to Edison," district spokesman Jason Olsen said in an emailed statement. "With Ms. Lacy's retirement, Assistant Principal Carolyn Synan will continue to run the day-to-day operations of the school. The district will work with the school staff and the school community council to hire a new principal as soon as possible."
The district posted the job opening on its website Tuesday.
Police say the allegation against Lacy is considered "inappropriate in nature," involving a punishment given to the male student by Lacy earlier this month. Officials have declined to give more specifics, citing the active investigation. No charges have been filed.
Detective Robert Ungricht said Wednesday the detective on the case is trying to establish Lacy's intent, or "mindset," related to the alleged punishment. He said Lacy has been cooperative.
"Was it the principal having a bad day?" Ungricht said. "[Or] was it sexual in nature?"
Lacy did not return an email seeking comment about her retirement, and previously declined to comment on the allegation.
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