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ALPENA, Mich. - An Alpena teacher and coach has resigned in the wake of an investigation into his alleged inappropriate communications with a junior varsity basketball player, according to The Alpena News. School officials said it was less expensive to reach a settlement with the teacher, which included his resignation, than to pursue the issue through the State Tenure Commission, The News reported.
Rod Borchard has been on administrative leave since March, when he violated the terms of a Stipulated Disciplinary Disposition, The News reported. That disposition stemmed from his alleged communications with the 15-year-old female player, which included putting five romantic letters into her gym bag, according to The News.
In exchange for Borchard's "irrevocable voluntary letter of resignation," the board has agreed to pay his salary through December 31 as he uses up sick leave, and also will provide him with health insurance through 2010, The News reported.
Board Treasurer Mike Barnett said the settlement agreement was less expensive than a hearing before the state tenure commission, according to The News.
"I'm not happy with spending the money but I'm happier not to be spending more," he said, The News reported.
SOURCE:
The Alpena News, "Borchard resigns," June 23, 2009
FURTHER READING:
Michigan Education Report, "Tenure law is impediment to school reform," May 12, 2000
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