Principal Admits Overruling Student Election for Daughter

Arielle Curry, the principal of Washington Elementary School in Santa Barbara, California, has admitted to overriding the results of a sixth-grade student council election. The manipulation ensured her daughter was appointed president, a position the child did not win through the established voting process.

Curry was placed on administrative leave in late September following the incident. She later wrote a letter to families acknowledging the election was flawed, stating that "the runner-up candidates were selected instead of the candidates who received the most votes. This resulted in my own child being appointed president." She attributed the situation to a "flawed process" and apologized for the "disruption it caused within our school community."

The admission came after a witness reported the alleged fraud to the school district. Despite the controversy, Curry has since returned to her role at the school.

A letter from the district to the school community stated, "We recognize that the past weeks have brought uncertainty and concern to the Washington school community." It also expressed confidence that Curry "can lead this work with the school community and continue to provide an exceptional experience for students, families, and staff at Washington Elementary."

One parent, who spoke to Edhat, criticized Curry's actions, calling the move a "very stupid choice" that made the school "look ridiculous" and harmed its environment. However, this parent also noted that Curry generally maintained good relationships with many students and was a good principal in other aspects.

Curry previously served as the principal of Santa Barbara Junior High.