Southern Local teacher under investigation

Southern Local teacher under investigation

RACINE, Ohio – The Southern Local School District and the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office are investigating whether criminal charges should be brought against Adam J. Phillips, a Southern Jr./Sr. High School (7-12) math teacher.

Captain Frank Stewart of the Meigs Sheriff’s Office confirmed that his department is investigating to determine if criminal charges should be brought against Phillips. Captain Stewart could not give any other information as it is an active investigation.

Phillips, a former teacher at Green Local School District, was investigated for conduct unbecoming a licensed educator by failing to maintain appropriate teacher/student boundaries. This information is listed on the Ohio Department of Education Educator Conduct web site.

Phillips entered into an agreement in December of 2013, that his teaching license would be suspended until eight hours of approved training was completed on appropriate teacher-student boundaries approved by the Ohio Department of Education. He completed the training and the suspension was lifted.

Southern Local School Board President Gary D. Evans stated, “Phillips is on paid administrative leave and the investigation is in the hands of Superintendent Tony Deem and the Meigs Sheriff’s Department.”

The MIP has attempted to contact Southern Local Superintendent Tony Deem, but at the time of publication, Deem had not responded. Additionally, at the time of publication, Phillips has not been charged criminally and remains on paid administrative leave.