UPDATE: Colby teacher reinstated after investigation - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports

COLBY (WAOW) - Colby School Superintendent Steven Kolden says a teacher placed on paid administrative leave for nearly a month while the school investigated allegations of "inappropriate conduct" has been reinstated.

Kolden said the teacher was back on the job after the school board voted Wednesday to adopt his recommendation to return the teacher to the classroom and extra curricular duties.

"I wouldn't have recommended this action if I had any doubt about the future safety of our children," Kolden said. "It has been an incredibly difficult situation for the employee."

Kolden said the teacher went on paid leave Feb. 12 when the school learned of some allegations from Marshfield police.

Marshfield Police Chief Gary Jepsen has said a man came to the police department in early February and reported that he had been sexually touched more than three years ago at a Marshfield home by the male Colby teacher.

The man said he was 18 at the time, Jepsen said.

Jepsen said the statute of limitations on the allegations of misdemeanor fourth-degree sexual assault had passed, meaning no charges could be filed, and the matter was referred to the Colby School District.

Kolden said Thursday he was pleased the school board followed his recommendation. "I believe this resolution is in everybody's best interests."