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Principal on Leave Over Yearbook Rap Lyric
29 May
Summary
- Principal placed on administrative leave over a rap lyric in the yearbook.
- Yearbook quote attributed to the principal was allegedly not present during proofreading.
- The principal's attorney claims she was denied due process and is being scapegoated.
A principal in St. Johns County was placed on administrative leave with pay on Wednesday, May 20, following the inclusion of a song lyric on the Trout Creek Academy yearbook's front page. The quote, "Everybody hating, we just call them fans though! -Mrs. O'Connell," attributed to Rapper Fetty Wap, led to the allegation of "inappropriate conduct." This action precedes a potential non-reappointment for the 2026-2027 school year, barring the principal from all district property.
Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the quote's presence during the yearbook's review process. Emails from an assistant principal and the yearbook teacher suggest the quote was not in the proofread version submitted for administrative review on April 9. However, a district interview with the yearbook teacher indicates the principal, Ms. O'Connell, acknowledged seeing her quote. The principal's attorney argues she is being scapegoated and was denied due process, demanding an immediate hearing.
Legal counsel for the principal stated that she was informed she would be immediately suspended if she requested her attorney's presence during a meeting with the district. The demand letter sent to the St. Johns County School District emphasizes inconsistencies in the evidence presented and the investigative process. The attorney asserts that the district's actions are based on unfounded accusations and aims to secure a fair hearing for his client.
