Principal Removed as Students Start First Day of School at Newport News Elementary School after Teacher Shot by 6 Year Old

Briana Newton has been removed as principal of Richneck Elementary as children return to their classes for the first time since a teacher was intentionally shot at the school.

Newton was not fired but is no longer serving as principal for Richneck Elementary. Michell Price, district spokesperson could not speak to what her new role is within the district at the time.

First-grade teacher Abigale Zwerner was intentionally shot by one of her students, who was 6 years old. Zwerner’s attorney announced she plans to file a lawsuit on behalf of her client.

The school was warned before the shooting to place that the student had a gun, however when the student’s bag was searched no gun was found before the incident.

Three teachers went to the school administration on the day of the shooting about the child’s behavior, and they believed the student had a gun.

The child had brought his mother’s 9 mm Taurus firearm to school and used it to shoot his teacher on January 6th.

On Friday it was announced that the assistant principal Dr. Ebony Parker had resigned. Last Wednesday Newport News school board ousted Superintendent George Parker III from his position. The vote was 5-1, his last day will be January 31st.

Parker’s severance package is $502,115.14, which will be paid to him over the next year. This is two years’ salary as well as unused leave.

Students who returned Monday will now gain access to the school through two metal detector systems that have been installed. The school is also providing clear backpacks for the students when they return. Another addition to the school is two permanent school division security officers at the school.

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