Wilson High parents and students got a surprising message on Friday from the school district: Their principal since 2012 had left his post.

"Hello Wilson students and families," the message from Assistant Superintendent Joe LaFountaine began, "I wanted to make sure that you were aware that Principal Chatard is out of the office."

The message did not explain what "out of the office" meant for Principal Brian Chatard or if he would be back. Instead, LaFountaine told families the school was in the capable hands of Vice Principal Maude Lamont who has been at Wilson for 15 years and that the district has been lending more resources to ensure "a smooth start to the school year."

"In the meantime, thank you to everyone at Wilson for the energy you have brought to the first week of the 2018-19 school year," the message concluded.

The Portland Tribune first reported that Chatard was no longer working at Wilson.

Portland Public Schools Spokesman Harry Esteve said the district would not elaborate on the message or answer questions about the matter.

— Bethany Barnes

Got a tip about Portland Public Schools? Email Bethany: bbarnes@oregonian.com