Punxsutawney school board approves resignation of co-principal
UPDATE |
Jefferson Co., PA (WJAC) — Officials with the Punxsutawney Area School District confirmed to 6 News that the school board has officially accepted the resignation of co-principal Paul Hetrick.
District officials say Hetrick submitted his resignation on Monday and the school board voted to approve it on Tuesday.
Hetrick said in a statement that he was resigning from his position due to "personal struggles."
The school district confirmed that Hetrick is no longer an employee and a disciplinary hearing that was scheduled for next week has now been cancelled.
ORIGINAL |
Punxsutawney Area School District co-principal Paul Hetrick announced in a statement Tuesday that he is resigning from his position within the district as he deals with ongoing "personal struggles."
According to Hetrick's legal counsel, his resignation is effective immediately and he will not be providing any further public comments other than the following statement.
It is with a heavy heart that I announce I am resigning from employment as a Principal with the Punxsutawney School District effective February 7, 2023. I cannot allow my personal struggles to continue distracting from the important work of the district in educating the future of our community. The past six months have been extremely difficult for me as I am heartbroken that I am getting divorced from my wife. I have had a difficult time coping with this new reality and have acted inconsistent with my values and the reputation I worked hard to build as an educator for more than twenty years. I am sorry for the embarrassment I have caused my family, my colleagues, my students, and the community. I am committed to getting help so I can be the kind of father my three boys deserve. I will work hard to regain your trust as a member of the community. Please respect my family’s privacy during this difficult time.Hetrick made headlines late last year after he was charged with DUI, and for multiple PFA violations.
Hetrick was later sentenced to probation in the cases and was required to complete a 12-month ARD/DUI program.
As the school district discussed Hetrick's dismissal from this position, new claims of sexual harassment were made against him in late January.
The school board amended its statement of charges against Hetrick after it was alleged that he repeatedly sexually harassed a fellow employee.
6 News reached out to the school board for comment on Hetrick's reported resignation and officials say they are not yet willing to provide a statement as the district is still in the process of discussing and approving said resignation.
Stay with 6 News online and on-air for further updates.
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