Florida principal resigns after assembly targeting Black students over test scores

BUNNELL, Fla. - The principal of Bunnell Elementary School has stepped down amid an investigation into an assembly that targeted Black students over test scores last month, officials said. 

Donelle Evensen informed Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore that she is resigning from her post. Moore has called on the school's former principal, Marcus Sanfilippo, to return to the campus in an interim role.

Evensen and a teacher – who has not been named – were suspended and placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into the assembly that reportedly singled out fourth and fifth-grade Black students about improving their scores on standardized tests.

Evensen was appointed in July and her tenure ended on Thursday, in the midst of the fallout from last month’s controversial assemblies. What was first referred to as "thinking outside of the box" by district officials, was later deemed an act of segregation. 

"Regardless whether she resigned or terminated, as long as she's not at the school, I'm okay with it," said Jacinda Arrington, parent of a 4th grader who was among those singled out.

An investigation into the assembly is expected to be completed this week, officials said.