Local

Some parents call for principal's removal after Maitland school fights

MAITLAND, Fla. — About a month after a video surfaced of a fight at Maitland Middle School, we’ve obtained emails from some parents calling for the principal to step down.

Channel 9 obtained documents from concerned parents who demanded a change in leadership amidst safety concerns at the school.

One parent wrote that the type of behavior seen in the video isn’t suitable “for any age human being.” Another said that although they parent hadn't lived a sheltered life, the parent had never seen “the violence in (the video).”

The fight came after Channel 9 reported on other issues surrounding the school, including threats that led to another fight.

Some parents called for Dr. Stefanie Shames’ removal, including one who said their son has seen 15 fights this school year.

Records showed other incidents, including a student who brought a knife to school and allegedly threatened another student, in addition to the fights.

Some parents said they fear what is next.

Additional police were staged on campus the week after spring break, and parents said conditions have improved.

Students are now required to use sidewalks to transition between classes.  Additional staff has been added to P.E., where some of the fights have occurred.  New positions were also added to allow some top leaders in the school to focus on discipline for students.

Channel 9 learned a long-term plan to survey parents and create subcommittees is underway in the hopes to prevent fights.