Clayton High School Principal Dr. Bennett Jones and his attorney, W. Stacy Miller II of Raleigh, released a statement today following a financial settlement reached Tuesday evening with the Johnston County Public School Board.
In a 5-to-2 vote, the school board voted to settle claims with Dr. Jones over his removal from Clayton High School in August 2019. He was reinstated two months later. The school system agreed to pay $53,190.
Stacy Miller with Miller Law Group said, “We would like to thank the Johnston County Board of Education for doing the right thing and resolving this matter. Dr. Jones looks forward to his continual service to students and the Johnston County School system, as the principal of Clayton High School. It has been an honor to represent Dr. Jones in this time of crisis for him and his family.”
Dr. Jones released a statement saying, ““The last year has been a difficult time for my family and me. I am glad that this matter is behind us. I am thankful for the Board’s apology and for restoring my reputation. The unwavering support of students, parents, and community has been humbling. My family and I are eternally grateful. I look forward to the future and the many things that are to come at Clayton High School. Go Comets!”
Johnston County Public Schools had faced a potential civil lawsuit if they did not agree to the settlement. Board members Tracie Zukowski and Dr. Peggy Smith voted against the settlement.
Dr. Jones has been the principal at Clayton High School since 2016. He was named Johnston County Public Schools Principal of the Year for 2017-2018.
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Related Article: School Board Approves Financial Settlement With Clayton High Principal Dr. Bennett Jones
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This story has been updated
