Benjamin Rush Principal Should Stay, Teachers, Parents Urge

Benjamin Rush Elementary school has had three principals this year. At Wednesday night's board meeting, teachers asked if the current principal could stay in the position.

Dr. William J. Gretzula is the third principal this year at Benjamin Rush, according to third-grade teacher Lilly Rodriguez. She spoke on behalf of some Spanish-speaking parents who wanted the school board to know how much they respect and appreciate Gretzula and hope that he can remain the principal for the 2013-14 school year.

"We would like to have one steady principal. Our children deserve to not feel confused," Rodriguez said, reading from one parent's letter.

She presented copies of this letter and other letters from parents to the school board members. At the same time another teacher talked about how Principal Gretzula adds to the community of Benjamin Rush by being passionate about the work he is doing at the school.

Dean Bollendorf, who teaches art, said on Gretzula's first day he was reading with the children. Furthermore, he said the principal cares about the students, engages with the teachers and even picks up trash when he sees it.

"When his emotions come out and his passions come out, is when he is at his best," Bollendorf said. "He passes my personal test. I would want my children to be at this school."

Bensalem Township School Board President Ralph Douglass said the opinions expressed during public comment and in the letters will not go unnoticed.