Abby Kelley Foster Charter School cheer coaches on leave amid 'misconduct' investigation

WORCESTER — Multiple members of the Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School cheerleading coaching staff have been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into "allegations of misconduct."

In an email sent to parents Friday afternoon, obtained by the Telegram & Gazette, Executive Director Heidi Paluk said the school has hired outside counsel to conduct the investigation and that further action may be considered once it is complete.

"Upon receiving the allegations, AKFCS administration initiated an immediate response and took appropriate steps to ensure the safety of the students," the email said. "Since then, new information has come to our attention that requires us to put additional members of the cheer coaching staff on leave."

Paluk said the "difficult" decision has been made to suspend all cheer activities "until further notice," including participation in a competition this upcoming weekend.

"We strive for our school community to be one where our charter virtues, especially respect and honesty, are valued," she said. "Our students' safety and wellbeing are paramount and guide our school policies and behavioral codes. We do not tolerate violations of these standards."

In her email, Paluk said no other information was available.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School