Teacher at Ardrey Kell suspended after 'concerns about possible inappropriate behavior'

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District said a math teacher at Ardrey Kell High School has been suspended with pay amid an investigation into possible inappropriate behavior.

CMS said Brian Zelk was suspended Oct. 1 after concerns were brought to the attention of law enforcement and the district’s human resources department.

The district said, at this time, the concerns do not involve current students. Officials would not go into detail about the concerns.

Below is a message from the principal to families:

"Good afternoon Ardrey Kell families, this is David Switzer, principal at Ardrey Kell High School, calling with important information concerning our school community.

Concerns about possible inappropriate behavior by a CMS employee at Ardrey Kell have been brought to the attention of law enforcement and CMS Human Resources. At this time, these concerns do not involve current CMS students. The individual is suspended with pay from CMS pending the outcome of ongoing investigation.

I want you to know that our school and district take matters concerning the safety and well-being of our students very seriously. Any concerns or reports of possible inappropriate behavior or violations of CMS conduct policies are investigated thoroughly. The safety and well-being of students is top priority at Ardrey Kell and on every CMS campus.

Classes taught by the teacher in question are being covered by another math teacher who is well qualified and supported to ensure that our focus at Ardrey Kell remains on teaching and learning. Counseling support is available to any student or staff member by making a request to any school leader.

I am unable to provide further details today on this matter due to the ongoing investigation. Thank you for your support of our Ardrey Kell High School community."

Zelk is a track coach as well. Parents told Channel 9 they feel they should have been notified sooner.

"They usually tell us about everything else, so I don't see why we had not heard of it until now, parent Joseph Williamson said. “ It's the first of I’ve heard of it.”

The district said Zelk was hired in 1996 and teaches math for grades nine to 12.

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