The fate of a scandal-hit Angus head teacher remains shrouded in mystery more than nine months since she was suspended from duty.
A top council official said there is still a lack of “clarity” regarding the controversial probe centred on former Arbroath High School figurehead Gillian Rew.
Margo Williamson, the council’s strategic director of people, has updated parents about progress in the investigation, triggered by allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Mrs Rew on a sixth-year school trip to Lockerbie last September.
In a letter, Ms Williamson said the acting head teacher Bruce Pandrich will remain in post at the start of the next session, nearly a year on from Mrs Rew’s suspension.
The head teacher was the subject of a report to the procurator fiscal following allegations of drunken behaviour on the school trip and was subsequently charged by police.
The investigation led to the council’s suspension of the former depute rector of Morgan Academy in Dundee prior to Angus schools returning from last year’s autumn holiday.
Ms Williamson’s letter said: “As you are aware Mr Bruce Pandrich has been acting as interim head teacher at Arbroath High School.
“This is due to the continuing suspension of a senior member of staff at the high school.
“Since October 2014, I have been in regular correspondence with the external agencies involved.
“As yet, there appears to be no further clarity I can offer you.
“As such, Mr Bruce Pandrich will continue in his acting role for the beginning of the new session.
“I am assured by the leadership team in the school and the staff, this is not detracting from their commitment to do the very best for your children and I thank them sincerely for that.
“I appreciate your continuing forbearance with this situation and thank you for your support at this time.”
Mrs Rew was among staff accompanying the group on the adventure weekend, which was a reward for pupils’ performance during the year.
It is understood she became the subject of a complaint about her behaviour in front of youngsters.
The nature of the charge facing Mrs Rew has not been revealed by police.
Mrs Rew has not been available for comment.
Following her suspension pupils used social media to speak highly of their regard for the head teacher.
The Crown Office has said there is no update in the matter.