Good afternoon Parents, Students and Families:

Today, I have the difficult task of informing you of the arrest and criminal charges against one of our high school teachers, Mr. Russell Strange. Until further notice, Mr. Strange will be placed on paid administrative leave by the district pending investigation of all allegations and charges. This letter is to inform you of the district’s policy for the protection of student safety and privacy during this difficult situation.

The arrest by Riverside County Sheriff’s Deputies occurred on our campus Friday, November 9, during school hours. Mr. Strange was later booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center, and now faces multiple counts of unlawful sexual contact with a minor, and other charges.

Due to the serious nature of these allegations and charges, the district is fully cooperating with law enforcement. The district is committed to communicating as openly as possible about the facts of this situation, including district and school actions to support students and all concerned.

Continuity of instruction by qualified teachers will be provided for all students in Mr. Strange’s classes. Substitute arrangements will be in place when students return on Tuesday, November 13.

Beginning Tuesday morning the district will augment TCHS staff with extra district counseling and mental health support; they will be available to students and staff members who have questions and feelings about what has happened, and who may need to talk in a confidential and safe setting.

Many unanswered questions are on people minds—until the facts are known, protecting the interest and the wellbeing of our students, and the rights of all parties, will be our number one priority.

Should you have questions, please direct them to my office. Please understand it may take longer to return all calls and emails due to the heightened attention this situation has caused.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has provided the following contact information and telephone number should you have any information for this continuing investigation; please call Lead Investigator Argandona of the Lake Elsinore Police Department at (951) 245-3300.

In conclusion, we ask our students, parents/guardians, and staff to avoid the propagation of rumors and gossip, which can only distract from the goals of identifying the truth and protecting the innocent.

Thank you for your support as due process and factfinding continue.

Respectfully,

Dr. Whitney D’Amico, TCHS principal

Published at 5:45 p.m. on 11/10/18 and amended with information provided by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department Public Information Office.