Karen Cloninger, superintendent of Longview Public Schools, was arrested Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation related to the reported sexual assault case involving students at Mark Morris High School.

On Thursday (May 21) at about 9:26 a.m., the Longview Police Department arrested Karen Cloninger, superintendent of Longview Public Schools, as part of the ongoing investigation related to the reported sexual assault case involving students at Mark Morris High School.

Charges include:
• Tampering with a witness, RCW 9A.72.120 (felony)

• Failure to report, RCW 26.44.080 (gross misdemeanor)
• Obstructing a law enforcement officer, RCW 9A.76.020 (gross misdemeanor)

Additional charges are forthcoming for Andrew Schoonover, Executive Director of Student Services for Longview Public Schools, including but not limited to:

• Failure to report, RCW 26.44.080 (gross misdemeanor)
• Making a false or misleading statement to a public servant, RCW 9A.76.175 (gross misdemeanor)

Schoonover is a former administrator, teacher and coach in the Battle Ground School District.

“This investigation required a significant amount of time, coordination, and evidence review,” said Police Chief Robert Huhta. “We understand the significance this case has in our community and the concern it has created for students, families, staff, and the broader public.”

According to the probable cause statement, detectives developed information that Mark Morris High School staff and district leadership were made aware of allegations involving physical and sexual misconduct involving students as early as Jan. 29, 2026. Detectives further allege Superintendent Karen Cloninger was made aware of details involving multiple students, including allegations that one student was forcibly dragged into the Mark Morris High School varsity team room, pinned to the ground, and partially disrobed.

The probable cause statement further alleges Longview Police Department leadership directly contacted Cloninger on Feb. 5, 2026, after reports began circulating on social media and asked whether law enforcement assistance was needed. Detectives allege law enforcement was informed the matter had been investigated by the Longview School District and handled internally.

LPD began an official investigation after a parent contacted law enforcement directly on Feb. 9, 2026, to report a sexual assault. During the investigation, detectives also developed probable cause related to mandatory reporting requirements, information provided to law enforcement, and records and communications obtained through multiple search warrants.

Detectives further allege employees raised internal concerns regarding mandatory reporting obligations and whether law enforcement should be contacted. According to the probable cause statement, investigators developed information alleging employees were directed by Cloninger to handle the matter internally and discourage further discussion regarding the incident.

“Keeping children safe is a shared community responsibility,” continued Chief Huhta. “I want to thank our detectives for the professionalism, diligence, and care they have shown throughout this investigation. Our responsibility is to follow the facts, conduct thorough investigations, protect the integrity of the process, and present information through the legal system appropriately.”

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue reviewing evidence and following additional investigative leads. Additional arrests or charges remain possible as the investigation progresses.

Due to the active nature of the investigation and anticipated court proceedings, neither the City of Longview nor the Longview Police Department will be providing interviews or responding to media inquiries at this time.

Information provided by the Longview Police Department.