Ohio high school suspends principal Monica Asher following controversial Trump newsletter

Monica Asher, principal of Olentangy Orange High School in Lewis Center, Ohio, has been placed on administrative leave following an email she sent to staff expressing concern about the recent presidential election’s impact.

Asher shared the message in a staff newsletter for the week of November 11, which was later obtained by Crisis in the Classroom (CITC). In it, she described witnessing “pain, uncertainty, and division” and acknowledged the challenge of advising staff on how to “move forward.”

“I can't write a message that pretends like the election didn't happen,” Asher wrote, noting that both students and staff were navigating varied emotions about the outcome. She underscored her commitment to her values, saying, “I recognize that leadership is tested during tough times… anyone can lead when it is easy.”

Reassuring her staff, Asher promised that Olentangy Orange High School would continue to be a safe space promoting “humanity, dignity, and worth.” She encouraged the school community to “move like buffalo through a storm,” referencing the animal’s instinct to face storms head-on as a metaphor for resilience. “We can move towards the light AND we can create the light,” she concluded.

The Olentangy Local School District responded by addressing the matter internally, noting its commitment to an “inclusive excellence” environment for students, families, and staff. The district cited the Olentangy Board of Education’s staff ethics policy, which emphasizes maintaining professionalism and refraining from using one’s position for partisan purposes.

On November 14, Superintendent Todd R. Meyer announced that Principal Asher had been placed on administrative leave, with Assistant Principal Ellie Ellis stepping in as interim lead. “Administrative leave is a procedural step to protect the integrity of any district investigation,” Meyer explained. “The best interests of our students and staff remain our top priority.”

Asher’s situation reflects similar cases nationwide, where educators have faced scrutiny over responses to recent political events. In Virginia, the state’s Education Association President Carol Bauer advised educators on preparing for potential challenges. Meanwhile, an Idaho teacher came under investigation after her social media comments regarding a Trump supporter went viral.

The Olentangy Local School District has not shared further details, noting that the investigation is ongoing. The community remains attentive as the district navigates this situation, balancing public concerns with the district’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment.