Rashaad Powell, a boys’ basketball coach and assistant principal at Renton High School, has reportedly been placed on leave following allegations that he sent explicit messages to mothers of students.
The details were published by the Renton Reporter in early September and by the Seattle Times this week.
The Renton School District declined to comment on the allegations or confirm Powell’s current employment status, citing ongoing litigation.
A district spokesperson refused to clarify the nature of the litigation or confirm whether the matter has led to a hearing, trial, or official administrative decision.
According to reports by The Seattle Times, Powell is accused of sending unwanted, explicit messages via Snapchat to mothers of students attending the high school.
When KIRO 7 asked the spokesperson to verify basic details, he refused and pointed to the Seattle Times article.
Powell’s attorney told KIRO 7 the matter is being addressed in the proper forum and declined to provide further details about the allegations. The attorney also said “no comment” when asked.
Under Washington law, public school employees involved in a contract dispute with a district do maintain the right to an administrative hearing.
KIRO 7 spoke off camera with students at Renton High School, and several said the situation has not affected daily operations or activities at the school.