Former Bondurant Principal Resigns After District Says She Was Under The Influence At Work

Carrie Ratliff stepped down after the school district alleged she was impaired on campus.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:12pm

A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a stylized school bell icon in vibrant neon shades, conceptually representing the importance of responsible school leadership.The resignation of a school principal over alleged substance use on campus underscores the need for sober, professional leadership in education.Middletown Today

The Bondurant-Farrar school district in Iowa has accepted the resignation of elementary school principal Carrie Ratliff, after the district said she was under the influence of an unknown substance while on school grounds. The superintendent has named Kevin VanderLinden as the interim principal.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about school leadership and the importance of maintaining a sober, professional environment for students. It also highlights the need for clear policies and procedures around substance use by school administrators.

The details

According to the district, Ratliff was the principal at Morris Elementary School. The superintendent stated that the district accepted Ratliff's resignation on March 30th after determining she was under the influence of an unknown substance while on school property.

  • Ratliff's resignation was accepted on March 30, 2026.
  • Kevin VanderLinden has been named the interim principal.

The players

Carrie Ratliff

The former principal of Morris Elementary School in the Bondurant-Farrar school district, who resigned after the district alleged she was under the influence of an unknown substance while on school grounds.

Kevin VanderLinden

The interim principal who has been named to replace Carrie Ratliff at Morris Elementary School.

Bondurant-Farrar school district

The school district that accepted the resignation of Carrie Ratliff after alleging she was under the influence while on school property.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of school leaders maintaining professionalism and sobriety while on the job, in order to provide a safe and stable environment for students. The district's swift action in accepting Ratliff's resignation sends a clear message about their expectations for school administrators.