Dean of Students at North Whidbey Middle School arrested following child assault investigation

A North Whidbey Middle School administrator has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a child.

Oak Harbor Police Department said it worked with the Oak Harbor School District to investigate the incident, which happened Sept. 17, and officers arrested 49-year-old Alin Kitchens II six days later. Kitchens, the school’s Dean of Students, has been placed on administrative leave.

Police declined to provide additional information, citing the ongoing investigation, but in a statement, Deputy Chief Kevin Barton highlighted the importance of the partnership between law enforcement and local schools.

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“The Oak Harbor Police Department recognizes the importance of a strong partnership with the Oak Harbor School District when it comes to maintaining the safety and security of students and staff,” Barton said. “We appreciate the cooperation and timely assistance provided by the School District, which has been essential to this investigation.”

Police said the case appears to be an isolated incident and there’s nothing to suggest there’s a broader threat to students or staff at North Whidbey Middle School.