Source: Resigned Edina Schools Official Faced Allegations in Previous Job

KSTP.COM has uncovered new details about the Edina High School Athletic Director and Assistant Principal who resigned Monday night.

A spokesperson for Edina Public Schools will only say that the district was investigating allegations against Soma, adding that what was alleged was not criminal and had nothing to do with his employment at Edina.

Soma was hired in 2009.  He'd previously served as Activities Director and as a math teacher for South Washington County Schools.

A source within South Washington County Schools confirmed to KSTP.COM Reporter Jay Kolls that at or about the time Soma resigned from Woodbury High School, there were allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student.

Edina Public Schools spokesperson Susan Brott told KSTP.COM that Soma was placed on administrative leave August 23.  Because there was no discipline involved, the reason for his being placed on leave is not public information under the Minnesota Data Practices Act.

"The District respects Mr. Soma's personal decision to resign from Edina Public Schools and wishes him well in the future," said Brott in a written statement.

(Click here to read the entire statement)

Edina High School Principal Bruce Locklear will begin the search for a new Athletic Director.  In the meantime, the spokesperson said athletic department staff will perform the Athletic Director's duties.

The school's Principal, other assistant principals and deans will cover Soma's Assistant Principal duties.

"The district is moving forward with transition plans to ensure the needs of EHS (Edina High School) students and staff continue to be met," said Brott.