LOWELL â The Tri-Creek School Corp. board reaffirmed the temporary absence of its superintendent Thursday and didn't announce when an interim leader may be named. Tri-Creek Superintendent Rod Gardin has been on a paid, temporary leave of absence, which Gardin requested, since Jan. 28 following allegations of âgroomingâ behavior brought against the school leader in January. Gardin was not present during a public school board meeting Thursday night. Joseph Curosh Jr., Gardin's attorney, declined discussing Gardin's leave following Thursday's meeting. "This is a personnel matter, and as such, as you're aware, as far as client is considered it's confidential," Curosh said. An internal investigation conducted two weeks ago found no evidence of sexual misconduct against Gardin, School Board President Douglas Ward said at the board meeting.Â