Cambridge Principal Resigns After Stalking Charges

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - A Minnesota principal accused of stalking an ex-girlfriend has resigned from Cambridge Primary School.

Chris Grote is charged with stalking, disorderly conduct and fleeing police. He was arrested in September after a woman he used to date told police he wouldn't leave her home. When officers arrived, he ran into the woods, but was later caught and arrested.

The Cambridge-Isanti school board approved a mutual separation agreement with Grote that starts on Jan. 31, the district announced Friday. Rhonda Fischer will continue as interim principal through the end of the school year.

"Our staff has done an exceptional job keeping the focus on our students and their learning throughout this difficult situation" superintendent Dr. Ray Queener said in a statement. "Our students remain our priority and we continue to focus on the many positive things that occur in our schools each and every day."

Trisha Matthews has two children who used to attend Cambridge Primary School when Grote was principal.

"From what I know of him, he was amazing," she told WCCO in September. "One of the best principals that I've known in the school district."

Grote was released from jail after posting $6,000 bail following his first court appearance.