Western Hills Parents Petition Against Principal Transfer
By: Brittney Johnson, KARK 4 News
Updated: June 15, 2012
Groups of parents are pushing back after the Little Rock School District votes to transfer principals.
Western Hills Elementary parents want the district to reconsider moving longtime principal Scott Morgan, saying his long successful tenure drew many families to the school and they don't plan on letting him go without a fight.
"He's a great principal, he is really nice to us," said student Kaleb Dino.
Many parents credit Morgan with their children's growth and encouraging parents to get more involved. They were stunned when they received word he was being uprooted after a special meeting Thursday night.
"I hopped right on the computer and started typing a letter, this can't happen," said parent Charles Smith.
Morgan is changing places with the principal of McDermott Elementary. He's one of more than a dozen administrators being swapped as part of the superintendent's strategy to shake things up and improve student performance.
Thursday night, Dr. Morris Holmes said, "It offers an opportunity for refreshment. Teachers like to see new faces, students want to see new faces."
Not all students agree.
"I felt kind of disappointed because I didn't really expect it at all. Mr. Morgan was a great principal," said student Clayton Williams.
The group of parents rallying on school grounds Friday shared the same sentiment.
"I respect Dr. Holmes, I enjoyed his tenure in LRSD, however, I respectfully disagree with him. We want Mr. Morgan here," said Mindy Williams.
"He comes out of his own pocket, he spends night and day here, he loves these kids," added Emily Hithe.
Even the neighborhood association worries Morgan's absence will negatively impact their thriving community.
Association president Roderick Dunn said, "I think it would be a disconnect between the community and the school."
Parents say they understand many schools need help but believe their students shouldn't have to pay the price.
"They need to provide training and other services to principals not up to par, but to take something that's working and break it is counterproductive if you ask me," said Smith.
While parents will miss his leadership style, students say, it's the little things.
When asked what he would miss most, Clayton Williams responded, "Laughter. It's not going to be the same."
The parents plan to take their concerns and petitions to the next school board meeting.
Western Hills Elementary parents want the district to reconsider moving longtime principal Scott Morgan, saying his long successful tenure drew many families to the school and they don't plan on letting him go without a fight.
"He's a great principal, he is really nice to us," said student Kaleb Dino.
Many parents credit Morgan with their children's growth and encouraging parents to get more involved. They were stunned when they received word he was being uprooted after a special meeting Thursday night.
"I hopped right on the computer and started typing a letter, this can't happen," said parent Charles Smith.
Morgan is changing places with the principal of McDermott Elementary. He's one of more than a dozen administrators being swapped as part of the superintendent's strategy to shake things up and improve student performance.
Thursday night, Dr. Morris Holmes said, "It offers an opportunity for refreshment. Teachers like to see new faces, students want to see new faces."
Not all students agree.
"I felt kind of disappointed because I didn't really expect it at all. Mr. Morgan was a great principal," said student Clayton Williams.
The group of parents rallying on school grounds Friday shared the same sentiment.
"I respect Dr. Holmes, I enjoyed his tenure in LRSD, however, I respectfully disagree with him. We want Mr. Morgan here," said Mindy Williams.
"He comes out of his own pocket, he spends night and day here, he loves these kids," added Emily Hithe.
Even the neighborhood association worries Morgan's absence will negatively impact their thriving community.
Association president Roderick Dunn said, "I think it would be a disconnect between the community and the school."
Parents say they understand many schools need help but believe their students shouldn't have to pay the price.
"They need to provide training and other services to principals not up to par, but to take something that's working and break it is counterproductive if you ask me," said Smith.
While parents will miss his leadership style, students say, it's the little things.
When asked what he would miss most, Clayton Williams responded, "Laughter. It's not going to be the same."
The parents plan to take their concerns and petitions to the next school board meeting.
Comments
Maureen W.
June 16, 2012 at 5:20 pm
The tax payers of Little Rock need to petition the board. "Some" of the members are not strong enough to see/understand the true reasons for Dr. Holmes actions. His remarks in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette on Friday, June 15 show his lack of respect for people and his inmature actions and attitude. His quotes were not appropriate for a man in his position. This is what is in charge of the largest school district in the state, sad, sad. Remember folks, the board gave this man a "10%" raise to do this to LRSD. Fight and join together to get this man removed and this action reversed. Thankful for those that have "real" character and interigity to know the difference in right and wrong.
Sarah S.
June 16, 2012 at 8:40 am
The LRSD board needs to stand up to the tactics of Dr. Morris Holmes. He does not value the community nor the stability of the district to provide trust among the parents and future parents. The media needs to dig into his lack of following policy and procedure and "yes" Arkansas law. Tax payers, parents, and all in the community.. wake up !!
Sarah S.
June 16, 2012 at 8:12 am
It makes no sense to move principals!
Greg G.
June 16, 2012 at 7:05 am
