New details have emerged after the Crook County School Board previously authorized an OGEC investigation into high school principal, Jake Huffman over alleged ethics violations
(Update: Correction)
PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- New developments are unfolding after KTVZ News’ Tracee Tuesday, attended Crook County's School Board Meeting, Monday night.
An investigation has been launched against Crook County High School principal, Jake Huffman, for alleged misuse of school resources. Allegations, state that Huffman used school resources without paying the required rental fees - $20 an hour, under his business.
Instead, Huffman reserved gym time under Cowboy Mat Club, an organization eligible for free gym use.
Tracee Tuesday, reached out to several Crook County School Board Members as well as Jake Huffman, who all attended Monday night’s school board meeting, but chose not to be interviewed by KTVZ News.
Board Member Scott Cooper, directed us to Rich Simons, Communications Director for the Crook County School District.
“This was way back in November, I believe, and so HR investigated it, and we found that he was not booking the time, properly. It was a mistake. We didn't find anything malicious in what he was doing... Just a simple mistake, and so, we advised him to correct how he was doing the reservations, and he did that,” said Simons.
Simons also said the Board felt a 3rd party should step in.
“I think with this particular instance, we felt like, you know, it might be good for OGEC to do an investigation because it's a third party and they can just put it to rest.”
The Crook County School District has faced significant administrative turmoil in recent months.
Superintendent Melissa Skinner resigned in January 2025 following widespread student protests against her.
Additionally, School Board Members Jessica Brumble and Cheyenne Edgerly, resigned amid complaints concerning hiring practices and ethics violations .
KTVZ News has learned that the school board did not move forward with approving Brumble's hire as Transportation Manager. They re-opened that job position.
On Monday night, the School Board worked to approve a new Transportation Manager, Lindsey Price.
UPDATE (5/13/25):
Tuesday, Interim Superintendent, Dr. Joel Hoff, contacted KTVZ News, requesting to add language, clarifying Mr. Simon's statements regarding the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, and Dr. Hoff's role with the Crook County School District.
Dr. Joel Hoff: "OGEC is a separate entity and our board has no jurisdiction over their operations."
"I am committed to serving in an interim superintendent role through next school year. The board has not taken any action regarding appointing a permanent superintendent."
