Washington Elementary School Principal Arielle Curry led deliberations that resulted in her child becoming president even though they did not receive the most votes, resulting in a 12-day suspension, according to a letter Curry sent to Washington families.
Curry returned to campus on Oct. 9 after being placed on administrative leave Sept. 28.
According to a letter Curry sent to Washington famillies, Curry was placed on leave after her child, who attends the school, was appointed to the student body during a recent student council election but did not receive the most votes.
“This year, I led deliberations after the student votes were tallied that resulted in overriding the outcome of two positions: the President and one additional position,” Curry wrote. “In these cases, the runner-up candidates were selected instead of the candidates who received the most votes. This resulted in my own child being appointed president. I sincerely apologize for allowing this practice to persist.”
The letter also states:
“Having my children attend the school I lead is something for which I am deeply grateful, but it also requires an absolute commitment to objectivity and fairness, both in practice and in perception,” Curry said. “As I have reflected on the current situation, our school’s process for selecting student officers lacks transparency and fairness. I do take responsibility for that, and I will lead an effort to institute the changes necessary to improve this process.
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Sonia Wilson and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources John Becchio attached Curry’s letter in an email to Washington families.
“We recognize that the past few weeks have brought uncertainty and concern to the Washington school community,” the email reads. “As we move forward, the focus will be on supporting students and staff, strengthening relationships, and rebuilding trust across campus. We are confident that Ms. Curry can lead this work with the school community and continue to provide an exceptional experience for students, families, and staff at Washington Elementary.”
