In a remarkable display of investigative journalism, a student-run newspaper at Pittsburg High School in southeastern Kansas has successfully exposed discrepancies in the background of their newly appointed principal, resulting in her resignation.
Amy Robertson was appointed principal on March 6, but her credentials came under scrutiny when the staff of the Booster Redux began digging into her academic claims. Their research revealed that Corllins University, where Robertson purportedly earned her master’s and doctorate degrees, lacked a functioning website—a suspicious sign for an institution that should be operational. A dedicated group of six students spent weeks trying to verify her credentials, reaching out to various educational institutions and accreditation bodies, but found no evidence that Corllins was legitimate.
“She was supposed to lead our school, and we wanted to ensure she was properly qualified,” remarked senior Lisa Greene to a local news outlet. It turned out that Corllins University was considered a “diploma mill,” allowing individuals to purchase degrees without any real academic experience. The institution is neither accredited by the Department of Education nor recognized by the Better Business Bureau, and it has no known physical location. When approached by reporters, Robertson defended the validity of her degrees, stating that they were authenticated by the U.S. government and dismissed the students’ inquiries as unfounded.
An emergency meeting with faculty was convened, prompting Robertson to provide proof of her undergraduate education from Tulsa University. Unable to do so, she resigned later that evening.
The investigative efforts of these students required significant dedication and courage, as they faced pushback from those who discouraged their probing. Emily Johnson, the newspaper’s advisor, expressed her pride in her students, emphasizing that it was disheartening for them to notice issues that adults overlooked. Senior Connor Mitchell reflected on the gravity of their findings, stating, “At first it was thrilling, but then I realized the weight of the situation.”
Additionally, Robertson claimed to hold a teaching degree from Cambridge University, a claim that seems highly dubious. The students were guided by Eric Thomas, the executive director of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association, and received support from various journalists. Johnson had to recuse herself from the investigation since she participated in the hiring process.
In a commendable show of support, the school superintendent and other administrators acknowledged the investigation’s findings, admitting to an oversight that compromised student safety. Superintendent Mark Reynolds stated, “I feel responsible and recognize that I let down both the teachers and students.”
In an era where accountability in education is paramount, the revelation that someone without the proper qualifications could be appointed to such a crucial position raises concerns for families everywhere. The dedication shown by the Booster Redux team reminds us that asking questions and seeking the truth can lead to significant change.
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In summary, the investigative efforts of the student newspaper at Pittsburg High School led to the resignation of their principal, who misrepresented her academic qualifications, highlighting the importance of diligence and accountability in educational leadership.