By Alesha Capone
A principal who was stood down during an investigation into video footage which appeared to show him dragging a pupil along the ground, has been re-instated.
The Department of Education and Training (DET) investigated the incident which occurred at Manor Lakes P-12 College, in January, after the footage was released publicly earlier this year.
Principal Steve Warner was stood down during the investigation.
Families at the college have recently received a letter from the DET’s South West Victoria regional director, Dr Wendy Timms, saying that Mr Warner will resume his duties as principal at the college from April 23.
The letter states: “The investigation found the incident was not handled appropriately and the conduct did not meet the behaviour expected of a principal. These actions were unacceptable and the health and safety of our students remains our highest priority. I want to assure you that the appropriate action has been taken, including an official reprimand and the principal offering a formal apology to the family affected.
“Mr Warner has demonstrated he is sorry for his actions and that he is fully committed to moving the school forward and ensuring respectful and appropriate support for students, school staff and the community are a priority.
“We are confident that he is the best person to lead the college.”
The letter states that Mr Warner will “seek expert advice from the Independent Office For School Dispute Resolution about restoring the relationships with the school community”.
After Mr Warner was stood down, an online petition calling for him to be re-instated was signed by more than 15,000 people.
