Centennial High School principal reportedly resigns amid sexual misconduct controversy

The principal of Centennial High School reportedly announced his resignation on Friday, as the Peoria Unified School District (PUSD) continues to face criticism for its handling of sexual misconduct allegations against two former teachers at the school.

ABC15 reported that Principal Scott Hollabaugh shared the news in a letter after working at the high school for eight years. In the letter obtained by the TV station, Hollabaugh wrote:

“I recognize the pain and sadness our community continues to experience related to the actions of two former employees. The events of recent weeks have also prompted significant reflection about healing and what Centennial needs most moving forward.”

The principal added that he would help ensure a smooth transition over the upcoming weeks.

Hollabaugh’s departure is the second leadership change the district has had this week. During a special meeting on Tuesday, PUSD changed its leadership plan, appointing Tahlya Visintainer — a human resources officer — as interim superintendent after it accepted Ryan LaDouceur’s withdrawal from consideration.

Superintendent KC Somers’ last day is May 26 following his resignation.

What is the sexual misconduct case Centennial and PUSD is facing criticism for?

The school and district came under fire after allegations that Angela Burlaka and Haley Beck had an inappropriate relationship with a student while they were teachers.

Burlaka, 47, surrendered her teaching certification on Jan. 26, the same day PUSD terminated her.

Meanwhile, the district fired Beck, 27, on March 26 for violating its sexual harassment policy. However, her teaching certificate is still under review by the State Board of Education.

In an April 27 letter to families, Somers said that police told the district that teachers and administrators met their legal obligation for mandatory reporting in the case.

However, some district officials and state leaders disagree.

Former PUSD Governing Board President Heather Rooks was replaced as president after she acted alone by asking the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office to determine if the way the school and district officials handled the case violated Arizona’s mandatory reporting laws. Rooks explained that she made the inquiry after finding discrepancies in the police report between the district’s story and what students were saying.

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen also accused PUSD leaders of mishandling the allegations on Tuesday, and he called for district and state officials to take action.

In addition, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne recently said he doesn’t think the district fully followed Arizona statute.

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell previously told KTAR News 92.3 FM that any educators who suspect child abuse and fail to follow the state’s mandatory reporting laws could face felony charges.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Shira Tanzer contributed to this report. 

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