The Northwest High School marching band director has resigned as police continue to investigate allegations of misconduct involving a student, according to reporting from The Canton Repository.
The Northwest Local Schools Board of Education accepted Stephen Imler’s resignation during a special meeting Monday, Aug. 31.
According to The Repository, Imler submitted a resignation letter to Superintendent Shawn Braman dated Aug. 25, citing personal reasons. His resignation is effective Sept. 2.
Imler had been on paid administrative leave since Aug. 18 after Canal Fulton police contacted school officials regarding an investigation into alleged misconduct involving a student.
A police report previously obtained by The Repository indicated allegations of grooming and sexual battery had been made against Imler. The report did not identify whether the person who initially reported the allegations was a student or staff member.
Police records indicate the alleged offenses occurred between Aug. 18, 2025, and Jan. 16, 2026. The investigation was later reopened after authorities received new information.
Imler had served as the district’s band director and a music teacher for six years. The Repository reported that attempts to reach him for comment have been unsuccessful.
The school board previously approved retired music teacher Rob Newman to serve as a long-term substitute.
Newman is working alongside middle school music teacher Kim Good and volunteers to keep the marching band’s schedule moving forward. Good is expected to lead the band’s planned November trip to Walt Disney World, where students are scheduled to perform in a parade at the Magic Kingdom.
Braman said district officials will continue supporting Newman and the students during the transition.
With Imler’s resignation now accepted, Braman said he and the high school principal will begin discussing a longer-term plan for the band program.
The police investigation remains ongoing.
