Luverne High School Principal Greg Pittman has been placed on administrative leave indefinitely, according to Superintendent Terry Holley.

The reason for the leave has not been given.

“I’m trying to do what is best for our schools,” Holley said.

Pittman has one year left on his contract. The duration of the leave has not been determined, but could last through the end of his contract.

Luverne school staff attended Tuesday’s board meeting, expecting to learn what happened to their boss. After the meeting was adjourned without mention of Pittman, several people questioned Board Chairman Steve Sanders and Board Attorney Mike Jones and expressed their support for Pittman.

“We just want you to know we’re passionate about this,” said teacher Cathy Wilkes.

The teachers learned of Pittman’s leave as he was packing up his office and was escorted off campus last Friday afternoon.

They said he was told to be off the campus “before the buses rolled” at 2:30 p.m.

“We hate to see an injustice done,” said teacher Donna McDougald. “And it’s been done.”

Teachers also reported a divisive atmosphere, with students and staff taking sides on the issue.

Sanders and Jones were reluctant to share information.

The board met in executive session, but the leave was not a board decision.

Holley said he placed Pittman on leave and he stood behind his decision.

Holley also said there was no need for employees to fear the same fate.

“I just want people to do their jobs,” Holley said. “That’s all I’ve ever asked.”