GILBERT, Ariz. — For a decade Chris Reuter was a mainstay in the halls of Power Ranch Elementary School in Gilbert. But now, the home of the Panthers is without its leader, and many parents and supporters are demanding to know why.
Higley Unified School District accepted Reuter’s resignation on Nov. 9, according to the district. No explanation for his departure was given.
With no clear answers, some parents speculated that Reuter’s resignation could be connected to an investigation involving a former teacher accused of inappropriate conduct with a student. The district denied those allegations.
Friday morning, a spokesperson with Higley Unified Schools told 12News that Reuter’s resignation was not connected to the investigation into that teacher
In his letter of resignation letter, Reuter said he’s “proud of the Power Ranch community of students, staff and parents.”
A spokesperson for Higley Unified Schools called the decision “mutual” but couldn’t speak further about the reason behind it.
A Power Ranch teacher not authorized to speak on camera told 12News that Reuter’s resignation came as a shock and surprise, and that the district has not provided answers what led to his departure.
Wednesday at the Higley Unified School Governing Board meeting, students, supporters, and parents of Reuter packed the district’s headquarters to show support from Reuter.
Hailed as a role model, innovator and caring, some believe the resignation was forced.
Reuter’s wife, Lindsey Taylor-Reuter addressed board members as pictures of their two daughters who also attend Power Ranch were held for members to see.
"These are the types of children you want growing up in your school district, yet these girls will not be growing up as Higley students due to the concerning and unwarranted actions to remove Mr. Reuter, their dad,” she said.
Parents say they were blindsided by the news and demanded more transparency from the district.
“When it comes to school districts, it should not be a place for secrets,” said parent William Blankenship. “Anyone promoting the idea of keeping secrets from parents you don’t have a place in our community, he added.”
Parents say they still have more questions than answers, but hope something will come to light soon.
His resignation is effective on December 31, 2023.
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