Evans Proposes Resolution to Reinstate Patrick Pope at Hardy MS

Councilmember Jack Evans is taking legislative action to reinstate former Hardy Middle School Principal Patrick Pope. Evans submitted the "Continued Success of Rose L. Hardy Middle School Resolution of 2011” to the District Council Tuesday. The resolution will go before the Committee of the Whole, which oversees education.

The resolution states, "the Council directs the Mayor to reinstate Mr. Patrick Pope as the principal of the Rose L. Hardy Middle School." Pope's return will "maintain the diversity, curriculum, and leadership" at the successful middle school, according to the resolution.

Today's move comes after a year of community outcry over Pope's removal from the helm of the Georgetown middle school. Pope was removed from his position as principal at Hardy Middle School by then Chancellor Michelle Rhee at the end of the 2009-2010 school year.

, Evans said he in the past been in favor of the District Council staying out of the schools. But, "it is now, I think, firmly in my court...and it is an issue that continues to overshadow everything," said Evans.