The Merrill Area Public Schools is confirming that Kurt Soderberg, Merrill High School Associate Principal and boys’ varsity basketball coach, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave pending the outcome of an investigation. The investigation is a result of a reported interaction with a parent that if true, would be a violation of District policy and expectations of staff. The alleged incident occurred at the conclusion of the Feb. 9, 2016 basketball game at Green Bay East.
Furthermore, Adam Smith, Merrill High School boys’ junior varsity basketball coach has been placed on paid, non-disciplinary leave pending the completion of the investigation into concerns regarding attempting to influence and/or impede on the investigation.
“We have no concerns of student safety in the initiation of this investigation,” said Wally Leipart, MAPS superitendent. “We want to assure our athletes, students, parents and community that we have total confidence in the other coaches on staff to prepare our student athletes at this time.” Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, Leipart said no other information is being released by the Merrill Area Public Schools and administration.