FRUITLAND — Idaho State Police are investigating Fruitland High School principal and boys basketball coach Mike Fitch.
ISP spokesman Tim Marsano on Tuesday confirmed the investigation to Idaho Statesman reporter Ruth Brown. Marsano did not say what Fitch was being investigated for, or for how long, Brown reported.
No charges have been filed and Fitch has not been arrested.
“The Fruitland School District has received multiple reports and requests for information over the last couple of days regarding the leadership at Fruitland High School,” the Fruitland School District said in a statement to the Statesman. “We want to take this opportunity to assure students, parents, patrons and staff that we are following standard district protocols related to what is a pending personnel issue.”
Fruitland School District Superintendent Teresa Fabricius is “acting as administrator of Fruitland High School,” according to the district’s written statement.
It’s unclear whether Fitch is on leave during the changeup. Idaho code requires certificated district employees to be paid during involuntary administrative leave, unless a criminal court order prevents them from being in the presence of students or adults at the school, or if the employee is being detained in jail or prison.
Fitch has coached Fruitland’s boys basketball team to four state titles, including last season’s 3A title. It’s unclear whether or not he will continue to coach this season, his 20th as head coach.
