Riverview High security monitor fired after altercation with student
Sarasota County FL Sept 17 2019
A campus security monitor at Riverview High School was dismissed following a physical altercation with a student on Thursday, according to Sarasota County Schools.
Kenneth Howard, who had been employed with the school district since Aug. 12, was within the 6-month probationary period for new hires when the altercation that caused his dismissal occurred.
The decision came after a preliminary investigation conducted by the Sarasota County Schools Police Department found that there was misconduct and recommended his termination, according to a news release.
“It is never easy to dismiss a staff member who is liked by their peers,” said Todd Bowden, superintendent of Sarasota County Schools, in a news release.
“In the case of Mr. Howard, his behavior and actions were terribly inappropriate and not at all aligned with the responsibilities of a district employee. As educators, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, and Mr. Howard’s actions were not up to the standards of our school district.”
In addition to being a campus security monitor at the school, Howard also served as a volunteer football coach for the Rams and other district teams.
The Sarasota County Schools Police Department is expected to continue their investigation and will collaborate with other agencies involved in the case.
Herald Tribune