Reason for MRH Principal's Abrupt Resignation is Unknown

Following Monday’s announcement that Maplewood Richmond Heights Middle School principal Dr. Robert Dillon was named one of 20 educators to watch nationally, Dillon submitted his resignation to the school district Wednesday morning.

Dillon was placed on paid administrative leave until the end of his contract, said Brian Adkisson, communications director for the school district. Dillon's contract is scheduled to run through June 30, 2013. 

"It's a confidential personnel matter and we can't discuss anything further," Adkisson said. 

In a phone call from Patch, Dillon said there were no improprieties, but he wouldn't elaborate much further beyond that.

“There certainly were no legal issues, no unethical issues - none of that was a piece of the equation,” Dillon said.

“I too am shocked that this happened today,” he said. “I was trying to be respectful of the community in making sure that they can pursue another person to fill that role for next year.”

The timing has left parents confused, Dillon said. 

“I think that over time the story behind the story behind the story will unfold a bit more. I just don’t think it’s ready to be told yet,” he said.

Dillon said he’s always enjoyed his time at MRH.

“I live there for a reason because I think it’s a great community," he said. "But sometimes you have to work where you feel as though you can do the things you’re passionate about, so I’m in the process of finding a place that fits that a little better for me.”

The Maplewood Richmond Heights Board of Education met in a closed session on Tuesday evening, but details about that meeting weren't immediately available.