Brighton Resident and Novi Elementary Principal Arrested, Suspected of Being Intoxicated on School Grounds

Deerfield Elementary School Principal Kim Warren was arrested by Novi police Monday morning under suspicion of being intoxicated on school grounds, according to a press release from the Novi Community School District.

The press release states that the police found Warren in her car on school property and took her into custody at 2:10 p.m. As of Monday evening, Warren was released pending review by the the Novi city prosecutor, the release said.

According to a report from the Detroit Free Press, Novi Police stated Warren lives in Brighton. 

Novi Superintendent Dr. Steve Matthews said Warren was at school that morning and then went out to lunch. Police arrested her when she returned.

"There was no indication that morning that there was any problem or concern," Matthews said.

He said at no time did Warren enter the building or come in contact with the children or staff at Deerfield while intoxicated.

“This is an unfortunate set of circumstances and out of character for Ms. Warren," Matthews said. “Up until this event Ms. Warren has served the Deerfield Community and our district well.”

Pending resolution of her employment status, Warren has been placed on paid administrative leave. Lisa Fenchel, longtime principal at Novi Meadows, will serve as interim principal at the school, effective immediately.

Matthews said he met with Warren on Tuesday morning and evening to discuss the incident. 

He said Warren offered some context for the incident, including some "difficult times," but told him there is no justifying her behavior.

Matthews also said he tried to express support for her situation.

"I wanted to help her recognize that she needed help," he said.

Warren has been principal of Deerfield since the 2011-12 school year. Previously, she spent seven years as an elementary principal in South Lyon, five years as an elementary principal in Livonia and two years as an elementary principal in Wayne-Westland.

Deerfield will have counselors and social workers available to assist students and staff who have become aware of the situation.

Matthews said some parents have called to asked questions or express concerns, but that the school remains focused on the students and their safety.