Virginia School Board Removes Black Superintendent After 6-Year-Old Shoots Teacher

The Newport News School Board in Virginia has dismissed its superintendent following the shooting of a school teacher by a six-year-old student. On Wednesday, a five-to-one vote prompted the decision to remove Black Superintendent Dr. George Parker III from his role, effective February 1, The Hill reported. The move for dismissal was prompted by the community of teachers and parents who called for Parker’s resignation or firing. After the vote, Board Chair Lisa Surles-Law characterized Parker as  “a capable division leader who has served Newport News for nearly five years through some extremely challenging circumstances. This decision is based on the future trajectory and needs of our school division,” per 13News Now. Parker, will depart his post with two years’ salary paid over 12 months, according to the separation and severance agreement. He can also be paid at his hourly rate at the time of his termination if the board “requests the Superintendent’s assistance in transitioning his duties to his successor, or for other purposes.” According to police, 25-year-old Abigail Zwerner was teaching her first-grade class at Richneck Elementary School when she got shot by a student on January 6. . Police Chief Steve Drew has described the shooting as...