In a surprising turn of events, a student newspaper has brought to light significant discrepancies in the qualifications of a newly appointed principal. The investigative team behind the Pittsburg Pioneer, the student publication at Pittsburg High School in southeastern Kansas, uncovered troubling details about Amy Roberston, who had just been hired as principal on March 6.
While researching for an article, the students discovered that the university Roberston claimed to have received her master’s and doctorate degrees from, Corllins University, appeared to be a non-existent entity. After further investigation, a group of six determined students found that Corllins is widely recognized as a “diploma mill,” a type of institution that sells degrees without proper accreditation. Moreover, the university lacks a verifiable physical address and is not listed as accredited by the Department of Education or the Better Business Bureau.
“It was crucial for us to ensure that our principal was properly qualified,” remarked senior Jessica Taylor to a local news outlet. “We just wanted the truth.” When contacted for clarification, Roberston dismissed the validity of the concerns, insisting that her degrees had been authenticated by the U.S. government and that the status of Corllins University was irrelevant to her qualifications when she obtained her degrees.
An emergency faculty meeting was convened, during which Roberston was asked to provide a transcript from Tulsa University, where she claimed to have completed her undergraduate studies. Unable to do so, she resigned later that evening.
The efforts of these students were commendable, demonstrating both diligence and bravery in conducting their investigation. They didn’t just rely on online searches; they tirelessly reached out to various schools and accreditation bodies for weeks. Emily Johnson, the newspaper’s advisor, noted the immense pressure the students faced, with some adults urging them to “stop poking their noses in.” Junior Michael Greene expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Initially, it felt like an exciting challenge, but then it hit me how serious the implications were.”
In addition to her questionable degrees, Roberston also claimed to hold a teaching qualification from Cambridge University in England—an assertion that raises further skepticism.
The students received guidance from Eric Thomas, the executive director of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association, and other experienced journalists. Johnson, who had been involved in Roberston’s hiring, stepped back from the investigation. She expressed pride in her students, saying they highlighted an oversight that should have been addressed by the adults in charge.
Despite the unsettling revelations, the district’s superintendent and other administrators supported the students throughout the process. “I feel a personal responsibility. As superintendent, I recognize that I let both students and teachers down,” admitted Superintendent Mark Wilson.
In educational settings, especially regarding positions as critical as a principal, families expect thorough vetting of candidates. The notion that someone without the necessary qualifications could assume such an influential role is alarming. The students at the Pittsburg Pioneer took action where adults failed, proving that curiosity and diligence can lead to impactful change.
For more insights on related topics, you can explore resources on pregnancy and home insemination at Women’s Health, or check out tips for boosting fertility at Make a Mom. For additional information on self-insemination techniques, visit Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, a student-led investigation revealed the fraudulent credentials of a high school principal, resulting in her resignation, and highlighted the importance of accountability in educational leadership.