County Executive Marc Elrich questioned how a Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) employee could have six complaints of sexual harassment and other inappropriate behavior filed against him and, if true, not only still have a job but be promoted to principal.
The Washington Post reported Friday that Paint Branch High School Principal Joel Beidleman had been promoted to principal with a 20% raise in salary despite notifications that his lewd and graphic interactions were on file.
Beidleman is on “extended leave,” and MCPS has initiated “an independent external investigation” into the claims.
While attending the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair Sunday, Elrich said the chain of events “begs a lot of questions,” and that if the allegations are true, “There are some people who need to be held accountable.”
Montgomery County Board of Education (BOE) President Karla Silvestre, when contacted by MCM, texted, “Sorry. I’m out of the country. Please contact the PIO office.” She was referring to the MCPS public information office.
The BOE issued this joint statement:
“The Board of Education is appalled by the allegations published in the Washington Post about sexual harassment. We are taking immediate action, directing an independent investigation into these allegations and the implementation of Board policy, We, the Board, are resolute in our commitment to a safe and equitable workplace where sexual harassment and bullying is not tolerated. We will work with the findings of the independent investigation to move forward, strengthening our process and procedures so that our culture reflects our values. “
