HILTON, N.Y. — Former Northwood Elementary School principal Kirk Ashton, who is accused of sexually abusing dozens of students, was released from Monroe County Jail on Wednesday after his $100,000 cash bail was posted.

Ashton was arrested in April, accused of abusing multiple students in the district. He's also facing a number of civil lawsuits, and at least one parent has filed a notice of claim against the district.

Ashton officially resigned in September, after the Hilton School Board signed off on his separation agreement, paying him out for accrued vacation and sick days, and five months of salary.

The Monroe County District Attorney's Office said on Wednesday that Ashton has been set up with electronic home monitoring.

That $100,000 cash bail was steadily reduced from the original $500,000 cash bail set at Ashton's initial court appearance in April.

In the letter sent to families in the district, Hilton Central School District Superintendent Casey Kosiorek said:

"Dear District Families:

I have been informed that former Northwood Principal, Kirk Ashton, was released from jail today. Staff and Northwood families have been informed of his release. Please note that the district will have additional security present outside Northwood tomorrow. Counselors will be available for students and staff throughout the day."

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