MPS teachers and students protest principal hiring decision

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Some Milwaukee Public School teachers and students are protesting against what they’re calling an unfair hiring decision.

They’re speaking out about who should be the next principal of Lincoln Center of the Arts, a middle school on the east side that offers creative and performing arts.

The leadership position was left vacant after the previous principal was switched to a different school.

They say the longtime beloved assistant principal Miss. NeBritt Herring was perfect for the job. They say despite serving as acting principal and going through the District mandated interview process, the position was offered to someone else.

Although an official announcement hasn't been made, the new principal is a man from the Chicago area, according to those protesting.

“I think it’s disrespectful to the families,” said Julia Carian, former Lincoln teacher. “I think it’s disrespectful to the staff. I think it’s incredibly disrespectful to the students that Ms. Herring has been serving with such excellence. I think when all of that support is unanimous to keep the principal in place, that’s something leadership should really be listening to.”

The group collected more than 600 signatures in favor of Miss. Herring. They’re hoping the District will reserve its decision.

CBS 58 reached out the MPS for comment, but has not heard back.