Parma Heights elementary school principal resigns, angry parents wanted him to stay

PARMA, Ohio - Angry parents packed into Parma School Board chambers Monday to support their principal. But the board accepted the resignation of principal Rick Ruth from Parma Park Elementary School.

"I think there's just philosophical differences on some of my approaches," Ruth said following the board meeting.

It was an emotional meeting with some parents wiping away tears. The parents said they believe Ruth's problems began over how best to handle a student whom they say is violent.

"He flips desks. He kicks chairs. He has kicked teachers, the principal," one parent said, "and now my daughter is afraid to be in school in fear that she's going to get hurt."

Neither Ruth or Superintendent Jeff Graham could discuss any student.  Dr. Graham said he couldn't discuss Ruth or his resignation because it's a personnel matter. But when asked if kids at Parma Park will be safe to go to school on Tuesday, Graham said, "They are safe. Yes, they are."

Some of the parents are now threatening to circulate a petition to have Graham removed.

"There's a lot of emotion going on right now," Graham said, "and I think based on what little information they have on what got us to today, I understand."