The principal at Ed White Military Academy of Leadership in Jacksonville has been reassigned from his post, effective last week.
Jason Bloom was reassigned last week “in order to focus on a personal concern,” according to a letter sent home to parents from Duval County Public Schools.
Bloom was hired to lead Ed White in 2015, but has served in multiple capacities with DCPS over the years. The letter was sent home on Wednesday.
According to a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office police report, Bloom was considered a missing person on Feb. 5 after an argument with his girlfriend. Bloom’s daughter was concerned with his well-being after he sent her some unusual text messages regarding a recent breakup, the report states.
Due to Bloom’s position with the DCPS, JSO notified DCPS police. Bloom was later located by JSO at Baptist Medical Center in downtown Jacksonville after an extensive search by police.
Bloom’s time at Ed White has not been without controversy. He lead the charge to turn Ed White into a magnet school concentrating on military leadership and reports of him making obscene gestures towards a camera. The school’s website still list Bloom as principal as of Monday morning.
As for Ed White, DCPS Region Superintendent of High Schools Corey Wright is taking over interim leadership of the school.
“Mr. Bloom and his family have our continued support during this time of need. The students and families of Ed White remain our highest priority as we transition to a new school leader who can continue the high level of academic excellence that was established under Mr. Bloom’s leadership,” the statement to the Ed White community says. The letter says the school plans to keep parents, guardians and the community updated on staffing plans.
First Coast News called a number listed on the police report for Bloom, but our call was not returned