Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., Episcopal School of Jacksonville released a statement detailing how Shane Schumerth was let go from his teaching position and what security measures were taken.
Statement from Episcopal School of Jacksonville Wednesday March 7, 6:30 p.m.
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· "The teacher involved in Tuesday's incident was failing to meet the expectations of the School and was repeatedly counseled for issues associated with attendance and a lack of timeliness in complying with the requirements of the position.
· The separation meeting was held away from students and with a witness.
· The employee was informed of the decision to separate in the most compassionate way possible and was offered separation pay.
"As someone who worked closely with Dale on School matters, I can tell you that Dale dearly loved her faculty. She was always intent on not only addressing a situation legally, but in ensuring that we considered the personal impact on the employee. She lived her faith in the way that she led the School," said The Very Rev. Kate Moorehead, Dean of St. John's Cathedral.
· As is the standard practice within the School, the teacher was escorted off campus and the security force was informed and a guard was placed at the entrance of the School.
· The employee made no threat or other suggestion of intent to return to campus or to cause any type of injury to Dale or any other member of the Episcopal School family.
· Dale's vision was to have a secure campus where students and faculty would feel safe and flourish. Safety and security measures include a full time Director of Safety and Security, use of video surveillance, use of security gates, and use of a digital patrol check system that ensures patrols were completed. Episcopal followed all policies and protocols to ensure the safety of the students, faculty and staff during this unspeakably tragic event.
"Workplace violence has become a national epidemic but at this time we want to honor the legacy that a wonderful friend leaves behind - a School that that considers itself a large family - a family that is currently in the greatest of grief but a family that will continue providing caring, Christ-centered education," added The Very Rev. Kate Moorehead."