In a message to the Classical Magnet School community, Principal Timothy Sullivan explained how he hopes to be supported as he and Elaine Papas, the Assistant Principal, are transferred by Superintendent Kishimoto to another school in the district.

Sullivan said that he was “asked to make a difference” at a k-8 school which has been described as “underachieving.” He said that in recent days he has been “forced to reevaluate” his “belief systems,” and that he does not think that “neighborhood, parents’ level of education, or lottery number should impact the opportunity [that students] have in life.”

While calling Classical Magnet School the best in the state, he urged parents to help their children learn from this abrupt departure that “making sacrifices” and “helping those less fortunate” are positive actions.

In his message he said he plans to assure the senior class that he will be presiding over their graduation.

Jim Fagan was selected to serve as Interim Principal while a national search is conducted for Sullivan’s replacement. Gary Lotreck, and 8th grade teacher at the school, will be filling in for Papas until the end of the year. A long-term sub for Lotreck is being sought.

The school to which Sullivan and Papas are being transferred could not be confirmed before time of publication.

Click here to hear the full message from Sullivan to those at Classical.

Update: They have been transferred to the Latino Academy at Burns. This information, as well as notification of the transfer, was given to the Board of Education by Superintendent Kishimoto at approximately 10:30 Monday morning.