On Friday, August 11, the Washington Post released an article alleging that Paint Branch High School principal (previously Farquhar Middle School principal) Dr. Joel Beidleman had been reported to Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) 18 times in seven years and detailed alleged sexual harassment, workplace bullying, and other inappropriate conduct at multiple schools, spanning over a decade. The article states that Beidleman was placed on leave by MCPS and that the school system will launch an “independent, external investigation.” Earlier today, MCPS Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight sent a letter to the Farquhar Middle School community. The letter can be seen in full below:
Dear Farquhar Middle School Staff, Students and Families,
I am writing to address the serious allegations that have recently come to light concerning the former William H. Farquhar principal. Members of the Farquhar community have reported experiences that have been beyond troubling to me personally and professionally. I understand that these allegations have caused a range of emotions within our community, including anger, confusion, and sadness. It is essential that we acknowledge these emotions and work together to navigate through this difficult situation.
As superintendent, a mother, a former teacher, and a middle school principal, I am concerned on multiple levels. I know the importance of building a community of learners with engaged students and staff; this requires trust to be earned and leadership to demonstrate nurturing support and attention to each individual.
The scope of these allegations necessitates swift action to independently and objectively investigate, to gather ALL of the information, and then to take the appropriate actions to ensure that any issues are promptly addressed, adhering to policies.
No one should feel alone during this difficult time, and everyone must have the ability to share and talk about their feelings in this matter. This includes counseling services to provide opportunities for healing. These services will be in-place, at the school beginning tomorrow, August 15, 2023 from 8:30-3:30, when the Department of Health and Human Services will be on site to support. Additional counseling services will be available for various groups as needed and will be communicated with those groups in the near future. I also encourage anyone needing to talk or connect to seek the support team at the school.
I want to share with you the steps I commit to take moving forward:
• The independent investigators will conduct a comprehensive review of our policies and procedures related to harassment, bullying, and retaliation to ensure that they are robust, up-to-date, and effectively enforced.
• Reporting any other information is encouraged and requested to help our investigation and at this time, reporting is best accomplished by utilizing the anonymous Maryland Safe School Tipline, which is found online, or by using this phone number 1-833-MD-B-SAFE / 1-833-632-7233. Also available is the MCPS/Light House Tip Line (Waste, Fraud and Abuse line) at 877-268-8620 or online at www.lighthouse-services.com/mcps.
• We will work diligently to rebuild the trust that may have been compromised as a result of these allegations. We will prioritize open communication, active listening, and taking appropriate actions to address concerns.
We will make the changes necessary to mend and move forward positively.
It is my sincere hope that, together, we can emerge from this difficult situation as a stronger and more united community. Our collective commitment to the well-being of our students and the integrity of our educational environment will guide us through this challenging situation.
Thank you for your support and your trust that we will take the appropriate actions to ensure that any issues are promptly rectified. Please know that we are here for you.
Sincerely,
Monifa B. McKnight Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools