Teacher/Coach On Paid Leave Amid Farmington Probe

FARMINGTON, CT — A Farmington High School teacher and boys cross-country coach is on administrative leave pending completion of an ongoing school and police investigation into a "personnel matter," school officials said Tuesday.

According to a statement released by the Farmington School System to parents on Monday and issued to Patch Tuesday, Patrick Skerker was identified as the teacher subjected to the action.

School officials said he is a math teacher at Farmington High and has been placed on administrative leave "without prejudice while appropriate state and local agencies review this personnel matter as required by law."

The statement did not disclose the nature of the investigation, but school officials said safety is always something sought by the district.

"Student safety is our first and most important priority and we are vigilant in ensuring a safe and caring school environment that promotes well-being for all students," the school system said in its message to the community.

No further information was released by the school district.

"As you may know, we consider personnel matters to be confidential, and we are unable to further comment on this matter at this time," wrote school officials.

"Please be assured that we take personnel matters very seriously and are prompt and thorough in our approach when personnel matters arise."

School officials said they will continue to communicate with the school's community as developments arise.