A Show of Support for Ralston Principal Scott Carson

For one day, at least, Ralston Intermediate School principal Scott Carson had the support of nearly two dozen faculty and staff members Friday.

Holding signs reading “Keep Carson” and “Black Friday,” teachers and staff wearing all black with in agreement. They want Carson to remain as their principal.

Hovering near their location on Ralston Ave. were several parents and students, also in black as a sign of support.

“He’s a good guy,” said one teacher who asked not to be named. “We are happy with his performance. He listens to us and he has a lot of energy.”

The demonstration was formed after it was learned that Carson would not be brought back for another year. The decision was made during the closed session at last week’s Belmont-Redwood Shores School District Board meeting.

“I wear black because I was kept in the dark,” said one staff member.

The announcement made by the board surprised many school employees. Carson has been on the job seven months, the third principal at Ralston in as many years.

“We’ve been through this merry-go-round of principals and we’ve finally got one that’s good,” said a teacher. “He’s done a lot for this school, This is his first year and he’s been trying to sort out everything that has been left over from previous principals.”

Reasons for personnel decisions need not be made public according to district policy, though every teacher and staff member polled, a total of 19, said no one sought their input before the decision was made.

“He has us going in the right direction,” a teacher said. “Let’s get some stability. We’re already one of the top schools in the district and we can be even better. He has us in position to continue the growth.”

The school board itself remains in a state of flux, with Interim Co-Superintendent Dr. Suzanne Roy retiring at the end of the year, leaving Nellie Hungerford as the remaining interim superintendent. A search for a new superintendent is currently in process.

Board president Mr. Robert Tashjian was scheduled to provide an update on the February 28, 2013, Special Board Meeting Workshop held with Ms. Barbara Young and Mr. William Levinson of Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates on the process for the Superintendent search.

More on Patch: 

• Ralston Principal to Leave at End of School Year
• Principal's Departure a 'Private Personnel' Matter
• Op-Ed: 'I Will Not Be Wearing Black On Friday'
• Update: Coroner Identifies Hwy. 92 Crash Victim