Students expelled, principal sacked at B.C.S.

A month ago News 5 covered the upheaval at Belmopan Comprehensive School, where eight students had been suspended…and charges flew regarding lax discipline and incompetence on the part of teachers, students and administrators. Tonight we can report that at least a measure of calm has returned to the campus. The eight students have been expelled and some new policies initiated. According to B.C.S. Board Chairman, Jorge Flores, in mid April a meeting was held with board members and representatives from the Ministry of Education. The student’s records were reviewed and the matter was investigated. As a result, it was decided that based on school guidelines the students should not return. As for teacher Darwin Woodye, who students alleged was drunk and made derogatory remarks about a student’s mother, Flores said there was not sufficient evidence to support the charges. He added that during the meeting the officials also agreed that in the best interest of the school, the Acting Principal, Barrette Belisle, should be removed from her post. Flores says they have since advertised for a new principal, but have not yet filled the vacancy.