Three Florence Administrators Resign Amid Controversy

Three Florence school administrators submitted their resignations in January 28, 2002, following a swirling series of controversies relating to the management of the district, exacerbated by its deteriorating financial situation.

The Florence County School Board accepted the resignations of Superintendent Gerald Gerard, high school Principal Dave Zimmerman and elementary school Principal Hilary Boutin, effective June 30.

For weeks, teachers, students, parents, and other citizens complained to the board about management styles, poor communication, lack of trust, and “an unhealthy school climate.”

Much of the conflict revolved around disciplinary action initiated against Tom St. Louis, a popular mathematics and computer teacher who taught in the district for more than 20 years. In December, Gerard accused St. Louis of neglecting his duties, wasting school district resources and insubordination. On December 6, teachers staged a silent protest of Gerard’s actions by wearing black clothing. On December 7, high school students refused to attend classes. On January 3, St. Louis resigned. That night, the basketball team dedicated a game to him.

The staff and community also complained about a policy that directs staff to follow a “chain of command” before speaking publicly. Two teachers received letters from the district reminding them of the policy after they addressed the school board.

Posted February 1, 2002