Beaufort Co. principal on administrative leave after campaign video appearance

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - A Beaufort County School District principal has been placed on administrative leave after appearing in a political campaign video.

District officials confirmed Robert Smalls Leadership Academy Principal Bradley Tarrance was placed on administrative leave Sept. 2.

The action follows Tarrance’s appearance in a video for candidate Jared Madison. The video has since been removed.

In a statement, the school district said it is reviewing the situation in accordance with internal policy and state law:

“The Beaufort County School District takes concerns regarding compliance with district policies and applicable laws seriously. Mr. Tarrance was placed on administrative leave on September 2nd. At this time, we are unable to comment further on this personnel matter or the specifics of an ongoing review. However, the district is reviewing the matter and addressing the issue appropriately and consistently with applicable policies and state regulations.”

The district added that employees have been asked to review policy concerning staff participation in political activities, and officials requested refresher ethics training for all principals through the South Carolina State Ethics Commission.

Madison released a statement taking accountability for not being familiarized with the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding public officers and employees. He said he has submitted a candidate training guide to the ethics commission to help first-time candidates navigate campaign regulations.

This is a developing story. Check back with WTOC for updates as more information becomes available.