Central High School hires substitute for teacher

Clapper to fill in for controversial music instructor

Central High School recently hired a substitute teacher that will be filling in for music educator Janelle Parker, who is currently facing backlash after a social media comment about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Katie Clapper, a Central graduate, has a pre-K through fourth grade teaching certification and has "extensive" music experience, according to Superintendent Betsy Baker.

Clapper started her position on Monday.

Baker said that Clapper will be able to "effectively direct and rehearse with our students," adding that she is "highly skilled."

Baker sent an email to faculty and parents Thursday afternoon regarding Clapper's temporary employment.

When asked about Parker's current employment status, Baker said "we can't comment on personnel matters" at the moment.

According to the email, however, Clapper is holding Parker's position until Central finds a permanent replacement.