John Elmore Responds to the O’Neal Community
In a letter to the O’Neal community regarding our website launch, John Elmore addresses concerns about the school’s safety policies particularly in relation to the juvenile assault “incident” last spring. Elmore’s emphasis on the implementation of new security measures like “locks, cameras, and resistant doors” seems misplaced given that the assault occurred next to the gazebo in an unsupervised area devoid of cameras. Opening the central campus without these systems in place raises questions about the school’s understanding and handling of student safety in a comprehensive and proactive manner.
More concerning is Elmore’s complete silence on the central point – his misuse of power and abuse of the victim of the violence. The problem he ignores is less about cameras and more about the apparent centralization of disciplinary power in his hands. A letter sent by O’Neal’s attorney to the Stefanik family unequivocally states: “Disciplinary decisions of any student are made by the Head of School in his sole discretion.” This approach to discipline lacking any checks or balances such as input from an independent review board is deeply troubling. Furthermore, John Elmore’s written interpretation of the enrollment agreement reinforces that “negative comments about O’Neal or its faculty or staff, … will result in adverse action.” This stance effectively consolidates all decision-making power into his hands with the implication that any criticism could lead to termination. The aftermath of the assault involving victim silencing, targeting, and expulsion, seems to have been dictated by this unilateral framework.
The school’s assurance that administrators and faculty members “followed our policies throughout this matter” rings hollow when these policies grant unchecked authority to a single individual. It’s not just about following policies; it’s about whether those policies themselves are fair, just, and conducive to a safe and nurturing educational environment. The current situation at O’Neal, where the Head of School reigns with absolute control over disciplinary matters, can lead to decisions that are not only grossly unjust but also detrimental to the well-being of students. This authoritarian approach to school governance undermines the very principles of accountability and transparency that are fundamental to any educational institution.
