The Principal at Friendsville Elementary School in Blount County has been suspended.

The Blount County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation into Stan Painter on Friday based on allegations regarding claimed actions at the school during the 2023-2024 school year.

Painter was immediately suspended pending further investigation. Jennifer Moore, a longtime educator of more than 30 years, will serve as interim principal at Friendsville Elementary beginning today (Tuesday).

School Officials say the district intends to fully cooperate with BCSO and the Department of Children’s Services as they work to determine the validity of the allegations.