A Rochester charter school has accepted the retirement of its principal in the wake of a controversy over his refusing to let the school’s valedictorian from giving his speech at last month’s graduation.
the University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men announced the retirement of Joseph Munno today. Trustees President Dr. Edward Yansen said the decision is in the best interests of the school and its students, but the board also recognizes the role Munno played in helping establish the school and creating a robust education experience for young men in Rochester.
The school says in a statement that board members felt the negative attention from the valedictorian incident distracted from the accomplishments of the school.
Mayor Lovely Warren allowed the valedictorian to read his speech at city hall after the principal refused to allow him to deliver it at the school.