BELLAIRE — Bellaire Local Schools Superintendent Darren Jenkins informed the varsity coaches late last week that Athletics Director Molly Feller would be going on medical leave, effective immediately.

Jenkins, citing Federal HIPPA laws, couldn’t disclose what Feller’s medical issue is, but did say “she will be away (from her duties) as long as it takes for her to recover from her illness.”

During Feller’s absence, Assistant Athletics Director Kevin Schmidli and Jenkins will shoulder most of the athletic load.

“Kevin Schmidli will have increased coverage duties and I will take on administrative and budgetary functions,” Jenkins said.

Along with her role as A.D., Feller also serves as Bellaire’s testing coordinator, as well as oversees the district website and social media presence. Those duties will be divided among Elementary School Principal Derek Ault and Ben Doyle, who works in the district’s central office as well as serves as boys basketball coach.

During last week’s Bellaire Local School District Board of Education meeting, Feller and the athletic department were a point of contention.

According to Jenkins, “a group of people attended asking questions” about the athletic program. After hearing the concerns, the board convened in executive session.

“There are many rumors (circulating), but that’s all they are … rumors,” Jenkins said. “Our athletic program here at Bellaire, like most places, is important to the community. It’s a source of great pride. However, it’s part of the overall educational program. The tail does not wag the dog.”

Feller is in her eighth year as the Bellaire athletics director.

“The Bellaire Big Red family collectively wishes Mrs. Feller a speedy recovery,” Jenkins said.