The state Department of Education confirmed Thursday that Brad Bennett, the Hilo-Waiakea Complex Area superintendent who was on leave since December, is no longer employed by the DOE.
A DOE spokeswoman said Bennett’s last day of employment with the department was July 10. She did not specify whether Bennett’s employment was terminated or if his departure was voluntary.
The DOE first placed Bennett on “department directed leave” Dec. 22, 2017.
At that time, the department said it was investigating a complaint made against him but did not provide specifics about the complaint or the nature of the investigation.
The DOE did not respond to new questions about the nature of the investigation or its findings.
Chad Keone Farias, superintendent of the Ka‘u-Keaau-Pahoa Complex Area, has since performed Bennett’s duties, in addition to his own. According to the DOE, he is currently overseeing both complex areas.
As of Thursday, the Hilo-Waiakea superintendent position had not been posted.
Bennett was appointed superintendent in 2015. He was previously principal at Waiakeawaena and Haaheo elementary schools.