TEA: Union Grove Coach Being Investigated

AUSTIN — Texas Education Agency officials said Wednesday there is an open investigation against a Union Grove ISD assistant coach and teacher. That’s according to KETK and the Longview News-Journal. The state is investigating Steven Mulkey, said Debbie Graves Ratcliffe, director of communications for the TEA. Ratcliffe said there is a note on Mulkey’s certification that notes he is under review by the State Board of Educator Certification’s professional discipline unit. Ratcliffe would not comment on why Mulkey is being investigated. She said the length of an investigation by the Texas Education Agency varies, but it is typically quicker if law enforcement agencies are involved. She could not say whether law enforcement agencies are assisting with Mulkey’s case.

Union Grove ISD placed Mulkey on paid administrative leave “pending further review” in late July. Superintendent Brian Gray said Wednesday the district does not intend to hire anyone to fill Mulkey’s position. Mulkey was hired earlier this year to coach and teach history this fall semester, Gray said.