New Principal of Houston’s Harvard Elementary Resigns Amid Social Media Backlash, Interim Successor Appointed

Harvard Elementary School in Houston’s HISD was left without a new principal this week after Sharon Pe Benito stepped down before assuming the role, citing “extensive bullying” on social media. HISD Central Division Superintendent Dr. Luz Martinez communicated the news to parents in a letter, a development reported by

KPRC 2

.

Pe Benito, who was previously recognized as the Secondary Teacher of the Year for HISD’s East Division and had served as a principal apprentice, has foregone her promotion following a social media-fueled backlash that erupted after her predecessor, Dr. Shelby Calabrese, was placed on administrative leave – he also faced recommendation for termination as announced last week, a situation that has prompted a strong reaction and a GoFundMe campaign in her support that has already raised over $6,000 at last count, illuminating the community’s rally for their former leader, as detailed by

The Houston Chronicle

.

In a bid to maintain stability at the school, Dr. Stefanie Spencer, a seasoned education professional with accolades including 2022 Principal of the Year for the elementary level in Spring Branch ISD, has been appointed interim principal for the rest of the academic year; her recent tenure includes assisting campuses across HISD with “high-quality instruction and systems” and she is anticipated to work closely with Harvard’s parents and community during the transition,

The Houston Chronicle

reported.

Molly Lashaway, who was initially hired as an assistant principal alongside Pe Benito, will remain in her role at Harvard Elementary, bringing experience from Memorial Elementary School. District leadership plans to work with the PTA and Harvard Elementary parents to create a principal profile for a permanent appointment in the coming year. HISD leadership has outlined this process as an opportunity for inclusivity, aiming to involve all stakeholders in shaping the school’s future. A meeting with the PTA Executive Committee and an open house with Spencer and Lashaway are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. today, as they will gather feedback and address questions from the affected families.

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