Dunbar principal under investigation wants ‘facts coming to light,’ attorney says

An attorney who represents a Lexington principal placed on leave said Tuesday that the educator looks forward to the conclusion of the investigation into alleged improper conduct.

“We’re looking forward to the investigation being concluded and all the facts coming to light,” said Dale Golden, who has been hired by Paul Laurence Dunbar Principal Marlon Ball.

Last week, after the death of athletic director Jason Howell, which is being investigated as a suicide, the school district released a statement that saying the Fayette schools community was “grieving” and that “concerns” raised by members of Dunbar’s staff would be investigated.

“Per our normal human resources procedures, Dunbar Principal Marlon Ball has been placed on administrative leave. As with any personnel matter, we are unable to comment further,” the statement said.

Golden said Tuesday that Ball had not been told specifically what happened that led to his being placed on administrative leave with pay.

A November 2 letter from Superintendent Demetrus Liggins to Ball said the leave is based on an allegation of inappropriate conduct. The letter did not provide details about the alleged inappropriate conduct.

Golden said he is not aware of the Dunbar staff raising concerns as the school district statement said.

“My understanding is there are policies and procedures for staff members to raise legitimate concerns. I have no knowledge of any concerns regarding Mr. Ball being communicated through these appropriate channels,” Golden said.

Fayette school district officials did not immediately comment Tuesday.

Ball was newly hired this school year.

Dunbar teacher Sharessa Bentley-Crovo, a teacher and member of Dunbar’s school council, said last week after the district’s announcement that “We’ve all struggled under Mr. Ball’s leadership, and after losing a beloved colleague, we can’t stay quiet.“

Two parents on the school council, Melissa Rife and Brian Nurick, released a message last week saying, “As Parent Representatives of the PLD SBDM Council, we look forward to the District completing their investigation. We also look forward to sharing additional information regarding certain public comments made, when appropriate.”