U-46 official: South Elgin elementary school principal on paid leave

A principal at Clinton Elementary School in South Elgin is on administrative leave, a U-46 official confirmed Saturday.

Mary Fergus, director of school and community relations, said John Oliver, Clinton's principal, is on paid leave but didn't elaborate.

Administrators notified parents of Oliver's status Thursday, according to emails posted in a U-46-related Facebook group. They said Chris Dennison, a retired U-46 administrator, will serve as the interim principal until further notice.

In a later email sent to parents, officials emphasized the importance of student needs.

"We recognize that this is a time of uncertainty for us all," the email said. "Our goal through this correspondence is to assure our Clinton community that we will continue to be here to support your child's social emotional needs."

The email also said plans for the leadership of the school would be communicated with parents in the coming weeks and a parent meeting with Clinton's PTO will be scheduled for parent and guardian involvement.