RHS Principal Could Receive Formal Disciplinary Notice on Wednesday

Disciplinary actions taken against Rockville High School Principal Eric Baim could be decided on Tuesday and released to the public on Wednesday of next week, Superintendent of Schools Mary Conway said.

Tuesday's meeting - a special meeting - is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the administration building, not the normal 7 p.m.

The Board of Education on July 24 voted not to terminate the employment of Baim after he was charged in Berlin with driving under the influence 11 days earlier.

The plan was for Conway to deliver a recommendation on disciplinary measures at an Aug. 14 school board meeting. On Wednesday, Conway said board members will likely go into executive session, discuss the recommendations and vote on them.

Conway said the formal letter will then likely be given to Baim on Wednesday and then be released to the public.

School board members can discuss potential discipline in private because it is considered a personnel issue, but the board must release any formal documents related to disciplinary action taken in accordance with state Freedom of Information law.

Conway and Board of Education Chairman Dean Houle have said they want to reserve comment until formal action is taken.

Baim said after the July meeting that, "It's something I obviously should't have done. But I hope I can turn this into something positive as I move forward. I want to thank everyone on the Board of Education."

Baim said he will intensify his efforts to work with programs like the RHS SSNAP - Students Seeking New Achievements Positively. He also pledged to adopt safe choices.

Many parents and students have stood by Baim during the process. He has also received some criticism.