In a recent school board meeting, community members expressed deep concerns regarding the resignation of principal Rupol following allegations of public intoxication and inappropriate behavior. Janice Stanford, a representative of the advocacy group Moms for Liberty, criticized the decision to allow Rupol to resign rather than face termination, emphasizing the potential risks to students and the message it sends about accountability. She highlighted that families of students who reported inappropriate touching are disheartened by the board's actions, fearing for their children's safety in the future.
Stanford's remarks were echoed by Christina Williams, who questioned the school administration's handling of the situation. Williams pointed out that the principal's resignation, coupled with a severance package, undermines parental confidence in the school system. She called for a more transparent process, suggesting that the board should wait for the completion of investigations before making decisions about employment status.
In response to the public outcry, Rob Miller, the superintendent, clarified that the resignation was a legal necessity due to statutory requirements governing administrative leave and due process. He assured the community that the school had reported the incident to the appropriate authorities, including the Tulsa Police Department and the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and that they were cooperating fully with ongoing investigations.
The meeting also addressed broader issues related to special education services, with parents voicing frustrations over the lack of adequate support for students with disabilities. Joe Huff and Luke Haley, both parents of children receiving special education, criticized the district's compliance with federal regulations and called for more inclusive educational practices. They argued that their children are not receiving the necessary time in general education settings, which research shows is crucial for their development.
The discussions highlighted significant concerns about student safety, administrative accountability, and the quality of education for students with special needs, prompting calls for reform and greater transparency from the school board.