High school principal to return to role despite inappropriate emails

A major backlash is expected after a state high school principal suspended after allegedly sending inappropriate emails and “explicit” video clips to staff was reinstated.

Jackson Dodd, James Nash State School principal

A Queensland principal who was suspended after allegedly sending inappropriate emails and “explicit” video clips to staff has been reinstated, with major backlash expected to unfold within the school community.

James Nash State High School principal Jackson Dodd is set to return to his role for the start of term 1 2024, the Department of Education confirmed.

Mr Dodd had been suspended indefinitely after revelations by The Courier-Mail that he was being investigated over an alleged series of inappropriate staff emails.

James Nash State High School staff were told on Friday that Mr Dodd was set to return for the start of 2024 in a decision that triggered surprise and concern.

A still from a YouTube clip allegedly sent by Jackson Dodd to staff.

It comes after a series of emails were allegedly sent by Mr Dodd to staff including a “Sexy and 17” video featuring a topless young woman.

Another of the emails had attached a music video featuring women in racy outfits while in a school setting.

It led to Mr Dodd being suspended while an investigation was undertaken.

Mr Dodd had initially been allowed to return to the school for the start of 2023 but had been temporarily working in a regional office position.

His replacement, acting principal Chris Shevelling, told staff last week that Mr Dodd would be returning in 2024.

“Jackson has spent semester two this year working with the Wide Bay high schools to assist them in developing processes to improve student outcomes in Years 7 to 9,” Mr Shevelling said in an email to staff.

A still from a YouTube clip allegedly sent by Jackson Dodd to staff.

One James Nash SHS staff member said the decision had been met with a level of disgust among staff and students.

“It’s going to create a huge backlash,” the school insider said.

“It beggars belief as to how it’s happened.”

It’s understood when Mr Dodd’s initial return had been met with controversy with the school subject to vandalism and disrespect from the student body.

The staff member predicted a similar reaction when the school community heard of the reappointment.

The department of education refused to answer questions regarding Mr Dodd’s reappointment or the outcome of the investigation.

“The matter is now concluded and action has been taken in line with departmental processes,” a spokesman said.

“Mr Dodd is returning to the school after working in a regional office position for the last

semester, and this has been communicated to the school community.

“The department is unable to detail specific actions taken in relation to this matter.”

At the time, Education Minister Grace Grace said she fully supported the decision to suspend Mr Dodd and described the alleged behaviour as “completely unacceptable.