Md. high school principal on leave after video appears to show him in fight with student
WASHINGTON (WJLA) - Cell phone video shows the moment when a school's principal is accused of scuffling with a student.
The commotion happening in the halls of Charles H. Flowers High School Wednesday.
You see a man appear to take a swipe at a student, that student take a swipe of his own, while a school resource officer attempts to separate them.
According to Prince George's County Public Schools, Principal Gorman Brown has been placed on leave as they investigate. Assistant Principal Ronald Miller will serve as Administrator in Charge in the interim.
WJLA obtained video (above) from inside Charles Herbert Flowers High School that was posted on social media, and the caption on it claims that it shows Dr. Gorman Brown hitting a student.
"We are aware of the incident at Charles Herbert Flowers High School," Prince George's County Public Schools communications officer Raven Hill said in a statement. "The matter is under investigation. The principal is on leave."
The school system did not immediately condemn Brown's alleged actions.
"Today’s incident is not in line with our school mission and values. Please discuss with your child acceptable behaviors that support a positive school climate," PGCPS wrote in a letter to parents.
Parent and fellow educator Elana Anderson was shocked when ABC 7 News showed her the video.
"Personally, I don't think any school administrator should swing on a student regardless of the circumstances," said Anderson.
Area 3 Associate Superintendent Dr. Carletta T. Marrow released this letter to parents and guardians today, stating:
Another educator who was picking up his child at the school called out the incident as unprofessional. Still, he said he needed more information.
"It definitely was a lack of judgement from the principal, definitely unwarranted, but I think you have to see the whole context of the situation to get a fair judgement of the principal," said Deshawn Anderson.
In the the school system's letter they wrote that safety of their students and staff is their top priority, and that safe learning environments are a "collective responsibility."
Elana Anderson puts more responsibility on educators.
"If you choose to become a teacher, then that is what you're taking on," she said. "I don't know if that is extreme. It's part of the job you agreed to do."
