The Blount County Sheriff’s Office has cleared an elementary principal of any wrongdoing following an investigation into his alleged actions at the school.
According to Blount County Schools Director Justin Ridge, on Aug. 15, BCSO opened an investigation into Stan Painter, the principal at Friendsville Elementary School, based on allegations regarding claimed actions at the school during the 2023-2024 school year.
On Aug. 20, the sheriff’s office said the investigation revealed that the allegations against Painter were not credible and he is therefore cleared of any wrongdoing. Investigators said the decision was based on careful reviews of surveillance footage, numerous witness interviews and records.
Blount County Schools released the following statement after the sheriff’s office cleared Painter:
“Blount County Schools has been informed that the Blount County District Attorney’s Office and the Blount County Sheriff’s Office have concluded their investigation into allegations involving Friendsville Elementary School Principal Stan Painter. Law enforcement officials have determined that the allegations were not credible, and the matter is now closed. We want to thank the Blount County Sheriff’s Office for their diligent and thorough investigation.
Mr. Painter was suspended solely in response to being notified of the external investigation, as is standard procedure by Blount County Schools. With this matter now resolved, we are pleased to welcome him back to his role as Principal of Friendsville Elementary, effective immediately.
Mr. Painter is a highly respected educator, having received multiple awards throughout his career and earning the admiration of colleagues, families, and students alike. He has been a pillar of the Friendsville community, and we are grateful for his continued leadership and service. Blount County Schools remains committed to ensuring a safe, supportive learning environment for all students and families, and we look forward to Mr. Painter’s return to the school community.”
Justin Ridge, Blount County Schools Director
While the investigation was going on, Ridge said Painter was immediately suspended and Jennifer Moore, a longtime educator of more than 30 years, served as interim principal at Friendsville Elementary.
He has since been reinstated to his position.
