Superintendent Macdonald clarified the board’s decision to reassign Principal Ron Perry in a recent email interview. Macdonald explained that Perry would still have a job as a teacher in the district for the 2024-2025 school year.

“Mr. Perry was not fired. He is reassigned and will have a position where his gifts will continue to be used to support students,” Macdonald said.

At the board meeting, several teachers spoke publicly about their disapproval of the Board’s decision. Macdonald acknowledged this and responded to claims of lacking communication.

“I understand that in a situation like this, there will be disappointment. I also hope that upon reflection our teachers and staff will understand that they are not entitled to know about another employee’s status. I am not only legally required to maintain Mr. Perry’s confidentiality, but I believe every employee has a right to confidentiality in their personnel matters,” Macdonald said.

Macdonald plans to communicate with as many members of the Arcata High community as possible. Going forward he will be assembling an interview team to help choose a principal that fits well at the school.

“[An] interview team will include broad representation from the AHS faculty and staff as well as AHS parents and students, as has been our recent practice. We will also poll students to seek out all of the qualities that they want from their leader,” Macdonald said.

Macdonald urged students to reach out if they have any questions.

“I will do my best to reply to any email or phone call. Although I can’t share many of the details surrounding this personnel decision, I can share that I personally care very much for Arcata High,” Macdonald said.