PRINCESS ANNE, Md.- Washington High School has a new acting principal after the principal was relieved of his duties on Monday.
Sidney Hankerson served as Washington High's principal since 2013. A recent letter sent home to parents and students informed them of the leadership change and appointed Germaine Richardson as the school's acting principal effective March 9.
Tiffini McClain has two children who attend Washington High and said the notice was disturbing.
"It's really bothering me because I see what a good impact he's had on the school since he's been there and how much it's affected the kids now that they've taken him away," Mclain said.
Julia Deuarte, a senior at Washington High, said it was a surprise when Hankerson announced he was leaving.
"It was his last day, he came in and got his stuff and just left. He made an announcement saying it wasn't his choice and he had to step down and he'll miss us dearly," Deuarte explained.
Julia said there's a movement at school now demanding Hankerson's return. Julia said students are wearing badges at school saying "Bring Back Hank" and staging a walkout to get the superintendent's attention.
Dr. John Gaddis, superintendent of Somerset County Public Schools said there's a misperception that Hankerson was dismissed. Gaddis said that is not the case.
"Mr. Hankerson has not been dismissed, he's still a valuable part of the Somerset County Public Schools team," Gaddis said. "Mr. Hankerson has been placed on paid leave and I'm limited in what I can say; but we look forward to his return in the future to the school system."
Hankerson told WBOC in a statement that he is on paid leave after meeting with Gaddis and Human Resources; but he did not know why he was on paid leave and hopes a formal letter he should receive soon will give clarification.
