Spartanburg Day School Teacher Dismissed Under Scandal, Undergoing Investigation
Spartanburg, South Carolina
Notorious for its reputable status, the Spartanburg Day School finds itself at the heart of a scandal as it confronts a situation of policy violation by one of its teachers. The teacher, identified as the institution’s beloved band director, Dick Barnes, has been dismissed for behaviour deemed significantly off-regulation by school authorities.
Immediate Measures
The School took an assertive approach once the authorities became cognizant of the violating conduct on Thursday, April 18. The Communications Director for Spartanburg Day School, Lee Healy, disclosed to HERE News Network that the teacher had “significantly violated” the school’s code of conduct along with the terms of his employment. Consequently, the school proceeded with the immediate termination of Barnes and promptly informed parents of students in a letter dispatched on the same day.
“The school’s policies were upheld and the law enforcement was notified about the situation following which Mr. Barnes’ services were terminated.” Healy stated.
Undisclosed Violation
Upon being questioned by HERE News about the specific policy Barnes violated, school officials declined to comment on grounds of confidentiality. Although the school refrained from revealing the details, the seriousness of the violation can be grascribed from the involvement of local law enforcement into the incident. Lt. Kevin Bobo of the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news, stating that the department launched an official investigation into the matter involving Barnes.
Pending Legal Proceedings
As of April 22, no official charges have been filed against Barnes. The assistant 7th circuit solicitor, Amy Goulding, made this statement to HERE News Network early Monday afternoon. However, with the investigation in progress, any legal outcome remains to be seen.
About the School and the Teacher
Established in 1957, the Spartanburg Day School is a nationally accredited independent institution that serves students from kindergarten to the 12th grade. Dick Barnes, highly valued by students and colleagues alike, had been serving at the school since 2001, holding an experience of nearly two decades before his abrupt termination.
