Stephen Imler has resigned as the marching band director at Northwest High School while Canal Fulton police investigate allegations of misconduct involving a student, Jordan Miller News reported. The Northwest Local Schools Board of Education accepted Imler’s resignation during a special meeting on Aug. 31, with the departure effective Sept. 2.
Jordan Miller News noted that Imler had been on paid administrative leave since Aug. 18 after authorities contacted school officials regarding the investigation. Police records cited by the outlet indicate allegations of grooming and sexual battery occurred between Aug. 18, 2025, and Jan. 16, 2026. Imler served the district as a music teacher and band director for six years.
To ensure continuity for the student ensemble, the school board approved retired music teacher Rob Newman as a long-term substitute. Newman is collaborating with middle school music teacher Kim Good and volunteers to maintain the marching band’s schedule. Good is expected to lead the students on their planned November performance trip to Walt Disney World. Superintendent Shawn Braman stated that district officials will support the interim staff while administrators develop a long-term plan for the band program following the resignation.
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