KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho — The Lakeland Joint School District Board of Trustees placed Superintendent Rusty Taylor on paid administrative leave for the remainder of his contract, effective March 23, 2026, according to a board letter.
The board announced the decision in a letter to parents, staff and community members dated March 24, 2026, stating the action was taken “on the advice of legal council.”
Assistant Superintendent Jake Massey has been appointed as interim superintendent, the board said.
District officials declined to provide additional details about the circumstances surrounding Taylor’s administrative leave, citing personnel matter restrictions.
“As this is a personnel matter, we cannot provide further details at this time,” the Board of Trustees stated in the letter. “We appreciate your patience while we navigate this situation on behalf of the district.”
The board has not announced plans for a permanent replacement or indicated whether Taylor’s contract will be renewed, according to the letter.
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