KALAMAZOO, Mich. — An elementary teacher at a Kalamazoo school is on administrative leave, and district officials have yet to say why.
On Wednesday, the principal of Parkwood-Upjohn Elementary School sent a message to parents, explaining that fourth-grade teacher Joel Osborn would not be teaching for the foreseeable future.
"The safety and security of our students is our highest priority," said Principal Rosecrans in Wednesday's message.
The principal also said Osborn, who teaches English Language Arts, has not entered the school since December 20, 2022.
A long-term substitute will take over his class, the district said. Mrs. Julie Hill has worked for over 30 years as a special education teacher at Parkwood Upjohn Elementary School, and since retirement, she's worked as a tutor and guest teacher at the school.
Hill will remain in Osborn's classroom for "as long as needed," said the principal.
Court documents obtained by FOX 17 show Osborn is accused of forcing a woman to perform a sexual act that she did not consent to on May 26, 2022.
The alleged incident resulted in bleeding and “trouble walking,” documents read.
Kalamazoo Public School district officials say they cannot comment further on personnel matters but that parents are welcome to contact them with any questions or concerns.
