Sandy M. Underhill In! Wade W. Tobin Out! as ESHS Principal
According to a Ministry official who spoke to this news site on condition of anonymity, there were many applicants for the advertised post, however the Ministry of Education under instructions from Minister for Education and Culture Hon Myron V. Walwyn recommended Mrs. Underhill for the post of Acting Principal of the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS).
It was this news site that firstly and accurately reported that the Minister through his Acting Chief Education Officer Mrs. Jillian Douglas-Phillips had forced out Mr. Wade W. Tobin denying him a tenure renewal or confirmation when his two year secondment ended as Ag. Principal a couple months ago.
It was this news site that also reported that the Minister for Education Hon. Walwyn has supported the retirement of the Bregado Flax Educational Centre Principal, Ms. Caryl O’Neal.
Mrs. Underhill speaks exclusively with VINO
When this news site called Ms Underhill on September 6, 2014, she said that she could not comment since negotiations were still underway with regards to her ascending to the position of acting Principal.
Ms Underhill however expressed a willingness to speak following the completion of the negotiations.
She said, "I decline to comment at this time because negotiations are still underway. I would be willing to speak with you [after the negotiations are complete]."
What is being offered?
Meanwhile, a Department of Education Official who is close to the negotiations told our news room that allegedly an offer of $80,000 a year is on the table for a 2 year contract, plus a vehicle and housing.
The Official told our news room in an invited interview that “the offer was made attractive because Sandy had called it quits so we had to make the offer attractive to bring her back.”
The Department of Education Senior Officer said the Ministry of Education and Culture is expected to make an announcement this week about the appointment of Mrs. Underhill as Acting Principal of the ESHS.
It remains unclear the status of the substantive holder of the post of Principal Ms. Melissa Amey. Mr. Wade W. Tobin has returned to the Seventh-Day Adventist School as Principal.
Under Mr. Tobin’s tenure there have been record breaking academic successes and achievements at the Territory’s largest Secondary School, however there was a breakdown in respect by students for authority.
Mr. Tobin’s school office was vandalized and items stolen and his vehicle’s glass was smashed. It is believed that he was being undermined by very senior elements in the Ministry and Department of Education.
Mrs. Underhill holds a Bachelor’s Degree, and it is reported that she has law school ambitions.
27 Responses to “Sandy M. Underhill In! Wade W. Tobin Out! as ESHS Principal ”
Ms. Underhill, from what I hear you up for a rude awakening the kids in that school dont like you much very because of your at...ude . You all need to bring back Ms. Amey, do I hear an Amen. Oh question did anyone realise that there are parents with more than one child/children in high school , the way things set up for the opening of school some will have to take 2 days out from work. Just saying..
Also, the parents were informed early as to the schedule as regards students in different forms. Accordingly, they should have been able to make the necessary arrangements to lessen the disruption to their work day.
Wize up thats pure BULL S..T! I read recently about all the youth that passed 8-11 CXC examinations with high grades. There are students that excel at athletics, music etc. Stop making excuses and blaming Government/School for these things. The school is not perfect but the kids can learn. The problem is that the parents buy the kids electronic tablets and other gadgets to keep them busy while they do their do, then expect the Teachers and Government to work miracles. Why do we focus on the kids not performing but completely ignore the great things happening at ESHS? Name a public institution anywhere else that doesn't have its issues. How many of us are willing to contribute financially to the upgrade of the school? NOT MANY! The minute they start charging then all hell broke loose about who poor and struggling. With the opening of the Tech School as an official secondary school the numbers at ESHS should drop. The Minister already said there are plans to separate the school into JR/SR on that same campus and there is more than enough space to do so. They need to start charging an admin fee for using the school and ensure that those funds are used solely to upgrade the school. But how many will agree to it? We have many Lawyers, Doctors, Accountants etc. from that same school and many more on their way out. It cannot be the worst! Stop playing politics and let's see how we can help. We have become worst than the Tea Party Americans just sitting waiting, refreshing our computers/tablets/phones for a story to pounce on with negativity. Then we blame the youth for their behavior? What example are we setting? WE should call out negative yes, but let's acknowledge the positives too as well.
The worst is yet to come so keep eyes open.
May the Lord bless and keep you as you do your best.
I cover you with the precious blood of Jesus.