Mesa High School principal, athletic director won’t have contracts renewed

PHOENIX – Two Mesa High School leaders who are under investigation for failing to promptly report a suspected crime to police will not have their contracts renewed.

The Mesa Public Schools Governing Board voted Monday to non-renew the contracts of principal Kirk Thomas and athletic director David Klecka.

The latest action is not termination or a form of discipline, the district said. Thomas and Klecka, whose current contracts run through June 30, remain on administrative leave.

“Mesa High School has a long and proud tradition, and this timing allows the district to conduct a thorough search to secure leadership moving forward,” Jen Snyder, a spokesperson for Mesa Public Schools, said in a statement.

Why are Mesa High School officials under investigation?

The Mesa Police Department reportedly submitted charges against the two officials over winter break, according to ABC15.

They are accused of failing to adhere to reporting requirements following a February 2025 incident after a soccer game. Three individuals, including one with a gun, allegedly assaulted a juvenile around 8 p.m. on Feb. 12, but the incident wasn’t reported until the next day, according to ABC15.

The TV station reported that police were unable to contact the alleged victim for multiple days before opening an investigation into Thomas and Klecka for the reporting delay.

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