BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The principal of Hanover Elementary School is on a leave of absence until further notice because of “an incident that transpired this weekend,” according to Bethlehem Area School District.
Principal Erin Hines has led the school in Hanover Township, Northampton County, since 2019.
A notice of her leave was posted on the school district’s and the school’s website.
“We are unable to provide additional details as the investigation is ongoing,” the posts say.
In Hines's absence, Eric Fontanez, a former principal who is now the district’s supervisor of equity initiatives, has taken over administrative responsibilities at Hanover, the district said.
This comes as a separate district investigation is underway regarding a teacher’s altercation with a student this month at Northeast Middle School.
A video on social media appears to show a Northeast Middle School teacher trying to take a phone out of a seventh-grade student’s hands.
“We take all matters involving student and staff interactions seriously and are conducting a thorough review,” the district said in a statement in regard to that incident.
“We appreciate the cooperation of our school community as we follow the appropriate procedures.”
