5 Things To Know About Principal Charged With Assault

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA—A former principal at Carl Sandburg Middle School in Fort Hunt is facing charges of assault and battery after smacking a 12-year-old female student on the butt in April.

According to police, Terrence Eugene Yarborough entered the cafeteria and asked the girl to pick something off the floor. She refused two times, and the then-principal allegedly smacked her. He was placed on leave and resigned about a month later. Yarborough was issued a summons and will appear at the Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court on Aug. 4.

The news came as a shock to the Fairfax County Public School community, as he had been highly regarded by staff and parents alike.

Here's what we know about Yarborough when he was principal:

1. He has worked in education for 17 years.

Yarborough began his career in education as a substitute teacher and bus driver, according to a news release from the school. He joined FCPS 2005 as a subschool principal at Hayfield Secondary School and at Robinson Secondary School. He became Sanburg's principal in 2010.

2. He won an award from the school district in his first year as principal.

In 2011, Yarborough won "Outstanding First Year Principal." He was one of three finalists out of 12 nominations across FCPS, according to Sandburg Middle School.

“He knew that he had a challenge ahead of him by coming into a middle school that was in need of some extra TLC and improved student achievement,” said assistant principal Tara Charity in a statement in 2011. “Mr. Yarborough has been ahead of the game ever since.”

3. The school community recognized him for his work at the beginning of the year.

Yarborough was awarded a FCPS Cares award for January 2017 by parents, staff and community members. According to the district, the award is meant to "recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care." He was the regional winner for the month.

4. He was praised for his work on addressing school discipline.

Assistant principal Tara Charity said in 2011 discipline has declined in his first year as principal. He had hired a dean of students to support teachers and administrators in addressing minor discipline issues.

5. The school community praised his work in light of the incident and his resignation.

After Yarborough resigned, members of the Sandburg community released a petition to the school board in support of him. It received over 250 signatures. It reads:

We would like to express our disappointment in Terrence Yarborough’s recent resignation from Carl Sandburg Middle School. For the last seven years, Mr. Yarborough has transformed the halls and classrooms of Sandburg from a school that was plagued by problems and a poor reputation to a school that is now highly regarded within the community. His persistent dedication for wanting success for the school was felt by all. He believes in high standards, for teachers and students alike. Although serious and steadfast when required, Mr. Yarborough has a lighter side that demonstrates his good nature. His heart is big and he cared for every student’s personal progress and safety. We need FCPS to understand how deeply concerned we are going forward without his guidance and leadership. His departure is, without question, a giant loss for the school and for each family affected today and going forward. Mr. Yarborough was doing an excellent job!

Thank you,

Concerned Members of the Sandburg Community

Image via Fairfax County Public Schools