A local principal has been suspended after he was arrested for reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Juan Henderson, 41, principal of Troy Elementary School, was pulled over on Curtis Drive in Troy and arrested just before 8 p.m. Saturday.

On Tuesday, Henderson was suspended with pay, pending investigation, according to Troy City Schools Superintendent Lee Hicks. At that time the Troy City Board of Education will decide what disciplinary action, if any, should be taken.

“Obviously we are disappointed,” Hicks said. “We hold our administrators and teachers to high standards. Unfortunately, a mistake was made.”

Hicks said two Troy Schools’ directors would be aiding the two assistant principals at Troy Elementary School in Henderson’s absence.

“We want to ensure that day-to-day instruction and programs continue uninterrupted,” Hicks said.

Mayor Jimmy Lunsford described Henderson as a “fine family man.”

“I was very surprised to get the report of this because it is so out of character,” Lunsford said. “He is recognized as an outstanding principal and leader in the community.”

Lunsford said he believes Henderson is very remorseful.

“I hope that he won’t be judged too harshly and that he will have the opportunity to right this wrong,” Lunsford said.

Henderson released this statement Tuesday addressed to “friends and colleagues”:

“Everyday, as human beings, we make small and at times crucial mistakes that bestow on us regrets that may last days or even the rest of our lives. My lack of judgment has affected many people and I deeply regret my behavior. Please accept my sincerest apologies.”