Ryan Scott Ottney

PDT Staff Writer

FRANKLIN FURNACE — The Green Local School Board on Tuesday heard comments from students and parents, praising the work and achievements of band teacher Adam Phillips, before the board voted to accept Phillips’ resignation.

According to Green Superintendent Sandy Mers, Phillips was accused of being involved in an incident that occurred after school-hours in which students were inadvertently exposed to inappropriate adult material. Mers said that upon realizing the situation, Phillips quickly removed the students. The school board met March 4 for a special meeting to discuss possible disciplinary action, but no action was taken. Mers said Phillips submitted to her a written letter of resignation on March 7, citing only personal reasons.

His resignation was accepted, but not brought to the school board until their regular meeting on Tuesday.

Mers said two students spoke on behalf of a group of students from Green, lauding Phillips’ work and his achievements as band director.

“They commented more on the band program. They commented how music is now K-through-12, and they’ve won or participated in so many competitions and concerts,” Mers said. “I was very proud how the students handled themselves, in a very professional manner. Their love for the band program and what we’ve done at Green is evident.”

Some parents at the meeting asked the school board members to reconsider Phillips’ resignation and hire him back. The board thanked them for their comments but did not directly respond. Later in the meeting the school board voted to formally accept Phillips’ resignation.

Mers called Phillips an excellent teacher, and upon leaving the district she gave to him a letter of recommendation to use while searching for another job.

In other board action, the district extended its contract with High School Principal J.D. Emnett for five years. Mers said she was thrilled by their decision.

“He is truly an instructional leader and he is leading the high school in the right direction,” she said.

The Green Local School District Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month, at 5 p.m. in the Green High School Library. The next regular school board meeting is April 16.

Ryan Scott Ottney can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 287, or rottney@civitasmedia.com.