Aspen teacher replaced for rest of school year
January 24, 2013
ASPEN – An Aspen Middle School teacher charged with driving under the influence and cocaine possession has been replaced for the remainder of the school year, though no decision about his future employment has been made.
Bruce Johnson, who taught fifth grade, was suspended with pay after he was arrested Dec. 8 by Aspen police. A long-term substitute originally was hired to teach his class; at Tuesday’s Aspen Board of Education meeting, Johnson was replaced through June 7.
“We felt it was important to fill the position with a full-time certified teacher while the matter is still under review,” Aspen Superintendent John Maloy said, adding that “there is no predetermined date as to when a final decision will be made regarding Bruce and his unfortunate situation.”
Maloy previously said that “there are generally two investigations occurring simultaneously – an internal investigation and the investigation conducted by the arresting authorities. In many cases, one might be dependent upon the other.
“Therefore, it is possible that an investigation of this nature may include the outcome of the staff member’s day in court.”
Johnson’s next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 4.
