Before the meeting, parents, students and some staff from Lincoln Douglas Elementary school protested outside. They were armed with signs reading "Dr. D. is best. We don't need the rest." "They continue to not listen to us and we want them to know how serious we are about her staying as principal of that school," said Lincoln Douglas Parent Suzanne Peace. 'Dr. D' is Debra Divoky, Principal at Lincoln Douglas. Her supporters want her to stay because of the positive progress she's made at the school and for making it a welcoming environment. "Our school is very open. I think anybody you would talk to would say they feel very welcome when the come in. It's a very warm atmosphere," Teacher Lorie Arendt. But after more appeals to the school board during the meeting, Board President Steven Dorsey confirmed that Divoky isn't coming back this fall. "For them to say that they think they're doing what's best for Lincoln Douglas, I mean obviously is not the case," Arendt said. Dorsey says this decision wasn't easy. He went on to say quote: "We will never make everybody happy. But we have to consider what's best for the students, the community and Lincoln Douglas. We've made the decision and intend to have new leadership in that school." The announcement sent Lincoln Douglas students away with tears Wednesday night. And parents and staff wondering what will happen to their school in the coming year.
Board President Steven Dorsey didn't say why Principal Divoky's contract wasn't renewed. Before the meeting, Superintendent Peter Flynn said this is a personel issue and not something the district will discuss in the media. Divoky wasn't at the school board meeting. 23 News called her multiple times Wednesday, but she didn't return our messages.