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General News

29 June, 2023

Highview College principal Melinda Scash resigns

Highview College principal Melinda Scash has resigned, as the school board prepares to receive the findings of an independent review of workplace behaviour. The independent investigation was launched earlier this month by the school’s board to...

By Riley Upton

Highview College principal Melinda Scash resigns - feature photo

Highview College principal Melinda Scash has resigned, as the school board prepares to receive the findings of an independent review of workplace behaviour.

The independent investigation was launched earlier this month by the school’s board to determine whether expectations of staff and students to work and learn in respectful and safe environments were being met.

Ms Scash took a leave of absence while the investigation, which was expected to take up to three weeks, was underway.

The review has now been completed and in a statement, Highview College’s acting board chair Miriam Codognotto confirmed Ms Scash had resigned.

“The Highview College Board expects all of the school’s workplace policies and procedures are adhered to and consistent with school values and standards. All staff and students are entitled to work and learn in a respectful, caring, and safe environment,” she said.

“On June 9, 2023, the board informed staff of its intentions to conduct a review of the school’s workplace to determine whether these expectations were being met.

“At the same time, the school’s principal Melinda Scash requested a leave of absence from the school during the review process, which was approved by the board.

“Melinda has since tendered her resignation, which has been accepted by the board, effective immediately.

“The board recognises the contribution made by Melinda to the school, especially during the pandemic.

“We thank her for her commitment to the investigation process, her candour and openness to provide a safe workplace, and her continuing respect for staff, students, and the school community.”

Ms Codognotto said the board would not release the findings of the investigation due to confidentiality of those involved in the process.

“The review has now been concluded by the investigator based on information and material provided by staff, including Melinda,” she said.

“The review’s findings will not be released by the board given the confidentiality afforded to those who participated in the review process. Indeed, in line with our safety obligations, we will ensure that every participant is afforded confidentiality with respect to their concerns raised, and evidence. It is the right thing to do.

“The board looks forward to receiving the review’s findings in due course.”

The school made headlines last year after two students of African descent were required by school uniform policy to tie their hair back, which they argued caused pain and was not inclusive of their African descent.

The matter was reported to the Human Rights Commission and the situation is understood to be ongoing.

In 2017, Worksafe responded to a bullying complaint made by a staff member and found the school did not have appropriate reporting and investigation processes in place to manage workplace bullying allegations.

According to the ABC, the school undertook an independent review at the time and was later deemed compliant by Worksafe.

Highview’s board is now undertaking a search for a new principal.

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