The principal of Dellwood Middle School has returned to work after a period of administrative leave.

Tina Duke was placed on leave on March 2 while the Department of Child and Family Services carried out an investigation into unspecified allegations against her.

The Bermuda Public Services Union said Mrs Duke was cleared of any wrongdoing.

The union said: “Mrs Duke is gratified that she can now return to the business at hand — leading Dellwood Middle School.

“She would like to take this opportunity to thank the DMS family including staff, parents and students who pulled together and continued to work hard to ensure that there was little disruption to teaching and learning during this period.

“The union will continue to fight for a greater balance between the need to protect our children and reputational damage educators suffer during periods of investigation.”

Mrs Duke and three other staff members at Dellwood were placed on administrative leave in March over allegations that have not been made public.

Mike Charles of the Bermuda Union of Teachers said yesterday he was pleased to hear Mrs Duke has been able to return to the school.

But he said he awaited an update on the other staff members placed on leave. Mr Charles said: “As an educator, it’s good to hear that she has been exonerated. We are pleased to hear that. I just hope the other teachers at Dellwood will also be returning to school soon.

“We are still waiting to hear something from somebody. I don’t know where the investigation is at this point in time, but it’s good to hear that some one has gotten back to work.

“They were all in the same meetings, so hopefully we will hear something soon.”

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