Principal axed after seniors slide

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Superintendent Dr. Alan J. Ingram of the Springfield Public Schools has relieved High School of Commerce Principal Stephen Collins from his duties for allowing ten seniors to graduate in June although they did not fulfill graduation requirements.

Collins was ousted from Quabog Middle and High School in 2006 for allegedly tampering with a students' grades. Now three years later, Collins was 'relieved of his duties' in Springfield for allegedly allowing 10 students to graduate, who should not have.

Ingram ordered a thorough investigation by the Human Resources Department on June 14, the same day he received information students graduated when they should not have.

The internal investigation found the 10 students lacked graduation requirements. Most were one credit shy, but were awarded one anyway with approval by Principal Collins.

Ingram says he won't tolerate cheating and impropriety in Springfield schools.

"Springfield Public Schools holds everyone who works for the district accountable for our academic integrity,” Ingram said. “This very serious issue has a negative impact on Springfield Public Schools; its staff and students and creates unnecessary anguish for families. It is unacceptable.”

The ten students who graduated will need to make up their coursework through online, summer, evening, or Saturday classes. Parents and families of these students have been notified of the situation.

Collins has been with the district since May 12, 2008.