A Round Rock high school principal has been placed on paid administrative leave, just days after a former teacher publicly alleged the principal made racist remarks.

District leaders said they are investigating allegations against Early College High School Principal Veronica Coss.

In a letter to families, Natalie Nichols, an area superintendent, said "Coss has been placed on administrative leave for the protection of all involved during the ongoing investigation. Our students and staff are important to us and we will work to ensure there is no disruption in the education process during this time."

Reached by phone Tuesday, Coss told the American-Statesman she could not comment on the issue. "It is under investigation. I don’t want to say anything that could affect the investigation," Coss said. "I have a lot to say, but I cannot speak at this time. I would need to speak to my attorney before I talk to the media."

Former Pre-AP English teacher Stephanie Martin told school board members Thursday night that Coss used a racial slur about a black employee, said immigrants don't teach their children how to behave, and told teachers they needed to wean special education students off their accommodations, the educational aids or services provided to students by law. Martin, who worked for the district for a decade, left in May.

At a press conference Monday night outside of the school, Evelyn Nevarez told reporters she filed a district report in April alleging Coss made derogatory comments directed at students and also left her position over the situation.

Jefferson Runnels, 17, a senior at Early College High School, said Monday night there was heightened police presence on campus after the news broke on Monday.

District officials said they cannot comment on specific details because the situation is a personnel issue and an ongoing investigation, but said all reports of discrimination are taken seriously.

“Round Rock ISD does not and will not tolerate any form of discrimination in our classrooms, schools and facilities,” said district spokeswoman Martiza Gallaga.