AUSTINTOWN TWP., Ohio - 21 News has learned that the investigation into an Austintown Middle School principal involved what is being described as a “large knife” among other issues.

The Austintown Board of Education voted on Monday to bring James Penk back from paid leave, and appoint him as an assistant principal at Fitch High School.

When the board placed the then Middle School Principal on paid leave in mid-March, school officials did not reveal the reason for the move.

21 News has learned that the investigation involved allegations that Penk stored a “large” knife in his office and on several occasions handled it “in a manner against school policy during interactions with subordinates.”

In addition, a school spokesperson tells 21 News that Penk failed to properly address or report employee behavior that would violate board policy, or Ohio law regarding the use of sick leave.

In addition, the school says Penk failed to properly address or report an employee complaint involving harassment or discrimination.

Although school officials say Penk could have lost his job because of the infraction, the board decided to give him a second chance as an assistant high school principal.

Under an agreement with the school board, Penk will engage with what the board says is “an ongoing professional development in staff management and leadership under a veteran principal.”

The Ohio Department of Education records shows no history of disciplinary history for Penk.

The records show Penk was first licensed as a principal in 2004.