CATSKILL– After a three-week investigation, Michelle Storrs-Ryan has returned to school following allegations of harming a student during a play rehearsal. The incident, which involved the high school principal Junait Shah, led to Storrs-Ryan’s suspension on Feb. 26. However, the student involved, Madison Mudge, clarified that she had put the tape on her own mouth as a joke.
Alexandra Hallam, an 11th grader and lead in the musical, described the incident as a normal play rehearsal where students were talking. Storrs-Ryan jokingly suggested putting tape on someone’s mouth to bring discipline, but it was Madison Mudge who voluntarily placed the tape on her mouth. Despite this clarification, Shah was also suspended but reinstated on March 12.
Upon her return, a group of parents, students, and faculty welcomed Storrs-Ryan outside the music room. The situation escalated further with the involvement of the play’s contracted choreographer, Marcus McGregor, and the subsequent firing of McGregor due to breaches of confidentiality.
Community support for McGregor and Storrs-Ryan led to protests demanding Superintendent Dan Wilson’s resignation. The ongoing controversy has sparked discussions about the protection of student and employee information within the Catskill Central School District.
Storrs-Ryan’s reinstatement has brought some resolution, but calls for Wilson’s resignation continue. A petition with over 300 signatures advocates for the board of education to address community concerns regarding Wilson’s handling of the situation.
Despite the turmoil, the planned play performances have been postponed but are set to take place in April. The community remains divided on the issue, with tensions running high as stakeholders seek accountability and transparency within the school district.
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