School counselor under investigation for a 'potential district policy violation'

A school counselor at Harwood Junior High School, part of the HEB Independent School District, has been placed on paid administrative leave due to a potential violation of district policy.

In a message sent to parents of students at Harwood on Monday afternoon, principal Dr. Toby Givens said that questions had arisen from students, parents and staff regarding the absence of one of the counselors.

He said the counselor was put on paid administrative leave while the district investigates concerns that have been raised.

"This is standard procedure when concerns are brought forward indicating the potential violation of a district policy. In an abundance of caution, the district is conducting a full and complete investigation," Given said in the letter to parents. "No determinations have yet been made regarding whether any policy violations occurred. Only after a full and complete investigation will any actions, if needed, be taken. "

Givens added that the counselor has been instructed to not talk about the investigation or circumstances related to the investigation.

This story was originally published May 21, 2018 at 5:19 PM with the headline "School counselor under investigation for a 'potential district policy violation'."