The dean of students at North Whidbey Middle School was arrested Wednesday after Oak Harbor police say they received a report on Sept. 17 of a physical assault involving a child. Alin Kitchens II, 49, was taken into custody in connection with the allegation, and Oak Harbor Public Schools has since placed him on administrative leave while the investigation continues.
Police have not released details about what allegedly occurred, according to FOX 13 Seattle, and department officials say they do not plan to release additional information at this time. Investigators believe the incident was isolated and have reported that there is no ongoing threat to students or staff.
District Says It's Cooperating Fully With Police
Oak Harbor Public Schools released a statement saying it is cooperating fully with the police investigation and continuing to work alongside the department as the case moves forward. The station's report notes the district said it cannot share additional information about personnel or student matters, citing state and federal confidentiality laws.
The district placed the employee on leave as soon as the allegation was brought to its attention, per the same account. Oak Harbor Public Schools said it conducts background checks and annual student-safety and professional-responsibility training for all employees, and that student safety and well-being remain its highest priorities. The district added that the alleged actions, if true, would go against that staff training.
Police Emphasize Partnership With School District
Kevin Barton, deputy chief of police for the Oak Harbor Police Department, said the department values a strong partnership with the Oak Harbor School District to maintain student and staff safety, according to KIRO 7. The department says its investigation into the incident is ongoing, and no further details have been made public about what led to the arrest.
