On August 15, 2025, Friendsville Elementary School Principal Stan Painter was suspended amid a criminal investigation by the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, prompted by allegations regarding his actions during the 2023-2024 school year. The Tennessee Department of Child Services is also involved, and Blount County Schools Director Justin Ridge has confirmed the district’s full cooperation with the investigation.

No further details have been released, as the investigation is ongoing, and the allegations remain unproven, with Painter presumed innocent until proven guilty. Jennifer Moore, a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience, has been appointed interim principal starting August 19, 2025.

This marks a notable development for Friendsville Elementary, where Painter has served as principal since 2010, leading the school to Tennessee Reward School status five times.