Schools
Updated: Former Woodbury Athletic Director John Soma Resigns from Edina High School
Edina school district officials say allegations about Soma had prompted an investigation, though his resignation ends that process.
Athletic Director and Assistant Principal John Soma has resigned from his position at amid a district investigation into undisclosed allegations.
Soma previously served as AD at . KARE 11 reported that two allegations were brought against him during his employment with District 833.
spokeswoman Susan Brott said the school board accepted Soma's resignation Monday, Sept. 10 during a special meeting. His resignation is effective immediately and closes out an investigation the district had launched regarding unspecified allegations against Soma.
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"A variety of sources came forward with allegations and we placed Mr. Soma on leave on Aug. 23," Brott said. "The allegations were investigated and he opted to resign from the district. We wish him nothing but the best."
The allegations are not public information due to privacy laws, Brott said, but noted they have nothing to do with his employment in Edina and are not criminal in nature.
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Soma, 34, said the decision to resign was "based on what is best for me and my family."
"It was not an easy decision, but I know Edina will continue its tradition of success in the classroom and on the field, based on their outstanding staff, students and community," Soma said.
The Edina school district said it is focused on transition plans for the athletic department, with nothing set at this point. An interim athletic director might be appointed within the next few days, according to Brott.
EHS Principal Bruce Locklear will lead the transition of the athletic department, with day-to-day operations continuing to be handled by the athletic department staff. Coach and athlete issues will be directed to Locklear until a long-term plan is in place. As for Soma's duties as assistant principal, the existing EHS administration team will share them for now.
Soma has been with Edina Public Schools since 2009. Prior to that, he was employed as activities director at Woodbury High School.
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