The principal of a Vermont elementary school catering to students with disabilities has been placed on paid administrative leave following a car accident on Tuesday afternoon. Gavin Roddy, 41, was involved in a single-vehicle incident in Swanton shortly after 2:30 PM, showing signs of impairment when the police arrived on the scene.
Authorities reported that Roddy was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His mugshot revealed notable blemishes and redness on his forehead and around his nose.
Although the specifics of the accident are unclear, it is known that it took place about 25 miles from Berkshire Elementary School, where Roddy has been serving as principal since 2023.
Following his arrest, he was immediately placed on paid administrative leave, as confirmed by the superintendent of the Northeast Franklin Supervisory Union District. “This is standard human resources procedure to ensure that the rights of all employees are respected, including Principal Roddy’s right to due process,” the statement said. “We are committed to maintaining a stable and supportive learning environment for our students and staff.”
It’s worth noting that schools in the Berkshires were closed on Monday due to a snowstorm, leaving uncertainty about whether classes will resume on Tuesday.
The assistant principal has stepped up as acting principal during this period of investigation, as reported by the superintendent.
Before taking the role at Berkshire, Roddy was the assistant principal at the Academy of Mathematics and Science in Arizona. He was also a finalist for an assistant principal role at Enosburg Falls Middle School in 2023, located close to Berkshire.
Roddy earned his master’s degree in education in 2019 and is recognized for his contributions to the ELA curriculum at his previous school, where he advanced from language arts teacher to dean of students.
He has since been released from police custody and is set to appear in court on March 17. The newspaper has attempted to reach out to Roddy for any comments.
