Clarke addresses disciplinary action of principal accused of using profanity, his own future at Albion

By RJ Walters / For the Jackson Citizen Patriot

Albion Public Schools Superintendent Frederick Clarke answered questions this week about the disciplinary action of Harrington Elementary Principal Craig Wilson and his own future with the district.

Clarke said he could not disclose details about the district’s actions regarding Wilson — after retired teacher Kate Hayes accused him of using profanity when referring to her at a June 11 retirement luncheon — because it is an internal personnel matter.

“The investigation has been completed and appropriate disciplinary action has been taken,” Clarke said.

“To Mrs. Hayes: We appreciate the 34 years of wonderful service from you, and for what it’s worth, I’d like to personally offer you an apology,” he said.

Clarke also affirmed his allegiance to the district Tuesday, just two days after it was publicly announced he was the runner-up for the position of Dowagiac Union Schools superintendent.

“I was asked to apply at certain locations, and I’m currently not seeking employment anywhere else,” Clarke said. “I’m comfortable in Albion, I always have been, the board is a wonderful board to work for — I enjoy working with them, there is good teamwork and we’ve got a lot of challenges ahead of us.

“I’m just looking forward to the next year, staying at Albion and solving a lot of these really, really tough problems.”

Clarke was also one of three finalists to become the superintendent for Saginaw Public Schools in January.