Westmoore principal Bruce Williams reinstated
By Kathi Keys
Staff Writer, The Courier-Tribune
WESTMOORE - Bruce Williams has been reinstated as principal of Westmoore
School, effective on Monday when students and staff return to school.
Williams was suspended with pay on Dec. 13 after two charges of misdemeanor
false imprisonment were filed by a Westmoore parent with a Moore County
magistrate on Dec. 8.
The Moore County Schools' administration has been conducting an investigation
about the charges since that time; parents and community members have rallied
in support of Williams since his suspension began.
Moore County Schools Superintendent Dr. Susan Purser issued a statement,
released to the media on Saturday, about the reinstatement. "We are
satisfied that a fair and thorough investigation has been concluded regarding
this matter and feel it is appropriate that Mr. Williams return to his leadership
role as principal of Westmoore Elementary School at this time," Purser
said.
Williams, a Robbins resident, has been principal of Westmoore since 1991
and in education for 27 years.
Tammy Galloway, who has two sons enrolled at the school, filed the criminal
summons against Wil-liams, claiming that on Nov. 30 she had to ask three
times to be allowed to leave his office with her son.
She alleges that Williams wouldn't remove his hand from the door when
she asked. Galloway had requested the conference with the principal after
her son was involved in an altercation with another boy that day.
Westmoore parents and community residents held a rally across the street
from the school on the first day of Williams' suspension and later circulated
petitions in support of the long-time principal.
More than 150 people also showed up at an open PTA meeting Dec. 20 to
show their support for Williams.
Purser was also at that meeting to hear the citizens' concerns. At that
time she said, "We will work to resolve the issues as expeditiously
as possible. We have no timetable, but the time depends on the investigative
process."
The status of the misdemeanor charges against Williams and a Feb. 4 court
date, according to Court Search, could not be verified on Saturday.
Williams could not be reached for comment on Saturday.
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