Maryland principal retires after supporting pro-Palestine protest, violating school policy

A Maryland high school principal announced his retirement this week after endorsing a student-led walkout led by a Muslim group in support of Palestine.

Edward Owusu, who served as the principal of Clarksburg High School since 2017, announced his retirement to district staff and families in an email.

“This is by far one of the most difficult letters to write to what I consider my extended family,” Owusu wrote. “It is with mixed emotions that I announce my decision to retire as the Principal of Clarksburg High School, effective January 1, 2024. This decision comes after much introspection and family discussion.”

Owusu’s retirement comes only days after he publicly supported a student organization’s decision to protest in support of Palestine in a letter, yet seemed to overstep school policy on the matter. 

“As members of the Clarksburg community, we each have a responsibility to one another,” Owusu wrote. “Our richness is in our diversity. In unprecedented times like these around the world, we should all strive to be open, to listen, and to respect the rights of others. Therefore, I want to make you aware of an event planned for tomorrow.  

“Tomorrow, Thursday, November 9^th there will be a student-led walkout planned during periods 2 beginning at the Cafeteria Patio. Led by the Clarksburg Muslim Student Association, students will be demonstrating to voice their concerns about the conflict in the Middle East, in support of Palestine.  

“Participation in this demonstration is optional (not mandatory) and has been approved by school leadership. Absences due to participation in the walk-out will be excused, and students will be responsible for all missed work and instruction.” 

However, district policy states “any walk-out or departure from campus during the instructional day will be treated as an unexcused absence, given the disruptive impact on school operations.” 

Dozens of students walked out of class demanding a ceasefire in Palestine, according to Montgomery Community Media. 

Prior to the student walkout, the district issued a statement regarding the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas, leading to criticism from some in the community. 

“Our heartfelt thoughts are with our students and their families, who may be experiencing the impact of the deeply disturbing and tragic violence in Israel and Gaza in a variety of ways,” Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) said. “Our schools must be welcoming, safe, and secure places for all students.” 

But several Jewish organizations claimed the district’s response was “inadequate.”  

“We reserve our greatest anger and disappointment for Montgomery County Public Schools,” the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington and the Anti-Defamation League of Washington DC wrote in a letter.  

“MCPS’ senior management has consistently ignored our agencies’ urgent appeals over the last three days to respond appropriately and sensitively to the large Jewish community in the district, insisting instead that principals alone shoulder the burden of a public response. Meanwhile, Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight remained silent until the release of an inadequate statement last night.” 

Both organizations urged all school districts to do a better job supporting the Jewish community.