TAMPA, Fla. — The principal of Farnell Middle School in Tampa is stepping down after allegations surfaced that he had created a hostile work environment for some of his staff members.
An investigation conducted by a consulting firm outlined the claims made against the school’s principal, Tim Binder.
What You Need To Know
- Farnell Middle principal stepping down after allegations of hostile work environment
- According to outside firm's investigation, claims were made against Principal Tim Binder
- PDF: Consulting firm's investigation report
- MORE Education headlines
In a letter to Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Addison Davis, 4 employees expressed concerns regarding Binder’s alleged behavior. They claim he would swear when he spoke behind closed doors and tell stories regarding other employees’ personal lives. Also in the investigation, sexual acusations were made against Binder.
A supervisor determined that Binder should return to the classroom and step away from his post as administrator. The reasoning, outlined in the report, stated that the allegations against Binder involved his interactions with adults and not students, and he would be a better fit if he returned to teaching.
Specturm News interviewed students and parents hours after they were informed that the principal had stepped down from his post.
“He should not have been demoted from his job, there was no clear evidence of him doing these things and I feel like he was wrongfully accused,” said student Tommy Arcuri.
His friend Rocco Tomesi added that Binder was a great leader and well respected by the students there.
“If you ever needed anything he was there for you, academics, sports, he was there for every game and every sports game no matter what,” Tomesi stated.
Parents learned on Thursday that Binder was stepping down.
“I’m very sad. He’s the joy of Farnell,” said parent Kerrie Adent. “He’s the reason Farnell is Farnell Middle School. His first interest is the students. The students love him and the faculty loves him, I’m just shocked,” she said.
An online petition asking Dr. Binder be reinstated is also circulating on social media.
As a part of the PTA, parent Angela Wright has worked closely with Binder.
“I think everybody has something going on and I think if one person doesn’t like you it can snowball and you can essentially be canceled and I believe that’s whats happening here,” Wright said.
It’s not clear when Binder will begin teaching or at what school. Binder said he appreciates the support but that he’s urging parents and staff to accept his decision to step down.