Wayne Academy principal, three others placed on leave by school district

Wayne Academy’s principal — and three other staff members — have been placed on administrative leave by the district.

Wayne County Public Schools communications and public relations officer Ken Derksen confirmed that Dr. William Vann, Delontae Jackson, Marquise Lawrence and Gary Woodard II were placed on leave Tuesday.

Jackson, Lawrence and Woodard are all instructional assistants at the school. Jackson and Woodard also hold “behavior specialist” titles.

Derksen declined to detail why the measures were taken, citing state privacy laws.

“In accordance with North Carolina personnel privacy laws, the district cannot discuss the details of the administrative leave,” he said.

According to staff members who requested anonymity, Superintendent Dr. Michael Dunsmore visited Wayne Academy earlier this week and talked to staff about best practice — particularly as it pertains to the education of students with special needs.

Other staff from Central Office were on the campus as well.

This is a developing story. Check back with us here and on our Facebook page for updates.