Whenever the superintendent of a school district has reason to believe that cause exists for the dismissal of a teacher and is of the opinion that the immediate suspension of the teacher would be in the best interests of the children in the district, the superintendent or the local board of education upon receiving recommendation for suspension from the superintendent may suspend the teacher without notice or hearing. However, the suspension shall not deprive the teacher of any compensation or other benefits to which otherwise entitled. Such suspension shall extend to such time as the teacher's case is adjudicated at a trial de novo for a career teacher but such extension shall not include time for any further appeal process. Within ten (10) days' time after such suspension becomes effective, the local board of education shall initiate a hearing for dismissal pursuant to law.

However, in a case involving a criminal charge or indictment, such suspension may extend to such time as the teacher's case is finally adjudicated at trial. Provided, however, such extension shall not include any appeal process.

Added by Laws 1989, 1st Ex.Sess., c. 2, § 84, operative July 1, 1990. Amended by Laws 1992, c. 34, § 2, eff. July 1, 1992.