Mercer Island Track Coach Quits Amid District Investigation

Mercer Island High School track coach Elliot Powell has resigned from his positions at the school district after the district launched an investigation into alleged inappropriate personal conduct. 

Powell had been put on leave May 16, a day after the district received information about alleged inappropriate personal conduct, according to district Superintendent Gary Plano.

Plano did not disclose the nature of the allegations, but told Patch that the investigation is ongoing and that Powell has resigned.

Powell was not a teacher at Mercer Island, Plano said.

According to a prepared district statement, Powell resigned his posts on May 23:

The District received information on May 15, 2013, warranting an investigation of Mr. Powell for alleged inappropriate personal conduct. District administration placed Head Track Coach Elliot Powell on administrative leave from his head coach and other employment duties with the District on May 16, 2013. To insure student safety and to protect the integrity of the investigation, Mr. Powell was placed on leave until this investigation is concluded. Mr. Powell has resigned effective Thursday, May 23, 2013 from positions he held with the District. 

It is unfortunate that I have to share with you that on May 16,2013, the district administration placed Head Track Coach Elliot Powell on administrative leave from his head coach and other employment duties with the District. The reason for this action is we received information warranting an investigation of Mr. Powell for alleged inappropriate personal conduct. To insure student safety and protect the integrity of the investigation, Mr. Powell will be on leave until this investigation is concluded. We do not believe any further public comment regarding this situation is appropriate until the investigation is complete.