NR Mayor escorted from school on Friday

Interhim New Richland Mayor Loren Skelton, 74, was escorted by police from the premises of the NRHEG Secondary School in New Richland Friday morning. Skelton has been in charge of  the school’s media center for the past three years; his title is “paraprofessional,” meaning he supervises students and supports their learning, but is not a licensed teacher. The New Richland Police Department, whose officers removed Skelton, confirmed he was not arrested and no charges have been filed for any criminal activity. Law enforcement reportedly notified the school Thursday of its intention to remove Skelton Friday morning. 

 

Skelton, who told the Star Eagle on Friday he was not provided with a reason for his removal, also reports that he is on paid leave; he said he has been told to expect a meeting with school administration this week. At that time, he hopes to learn more about the reasons for his removal and the status of any ongoing employment with the school.

 

Skelton was appointed interim mayor effective April 2 following the resignation of former mayor Chad Neitzel. On Monday he served in his normal capacity as mayor during New Richland’s regular city council meeting.

 

Skelton had previously served on the New Richland council, and was elected to join it again in 2020 and 2022.