Ann Richards School Principals Exit Followed District Misconduct Findings, Report Shows

An internal investigation conducted by the Austin Independent School District has recommended the termination of Nicole Griffith, the principal of Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders, mere days before she submitted her resignation. The report alleges that Griffith and Dr. Stacie Holiday, the executive director of secondary schools, violated district policies while managing a student crisis. Specific accusations include withdrawing a student without proper parental notification and failing to initiate a special education evaluation despite clear indicators. Griffith’s attorney, Tiger Hanner, has labeled the heavily redacted report as "inaccurate" and "flawed," insisting that Griffith acted under the direction of her supervisors and legal counsel.

During a recent school board meeting, former district employee Cynthia Soliz criticized the investigation as incomplete, raising concerns about its impact on marginalized leaders in the district. Students and parents passionately supported Griffith, calling for restorative justice rather than termination. Meanwhile, AISD officials expressed confidence in their investigative process and continue to evaluate further actions. As of now, Dr. Holiday has not commented publicly on the matter.