Suspended SA principal cleared of 'misconduct'

A South Australian school principal, Tamarin Condon, has been cleared of misconduct by the Education Department following an abrupt stand-down from her position at Wallaroo Mines Primary School in Kadina. The department suspended Condon in November after a petition was circulated online expressing concerns about alleged unprofessional behavior. At the time, then-education minister Blair Boyer had invited Condon's husband, Simon Condon, to assist at a school camp, even though Simon Condon was not employed by the school.

The Education Department concluded its investigation and found no evidence of misconduct. A spokesperson for the department stated, "The Department for Education has concluded its investigation. No misconduct was identified." A new principal has been appointed to replace Condon at Wallaroo Mines Primary School. The department declined to comment further on the matter, citing privacy concerns. It also stated that they cannot comment on the lines of inquiry pursued during their investigation due to privacy reasons.

According to the ABC, parents reported that Department for Education officials had questioned students who attended the camp about Condon's behavior. Two parents also said they had spoken to SA Police, who confirmed they were aware of the matter. However, the ABC reported that there is no ongoing police investigation at this time.

Condon's lawyer, Luke Officer, welcomed the findings, stating that "allegations are only that until they are otherwise proven." He emphasized that investigations into such allegations must proceed without unhelpful public commentary that can damage reputations unnecessarily. Officer expressed his client's welcome of the closure of the matter and her eagerness to move forward.