Parents angered by removal of elementary principal

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Parents at Blaine Elementary School on the North side are angered and planning their next course of action after the removal of their well-liked and outspoken principal.

The Chicago Public Schools removed principal Troy LaRaviere last week -- while school was on spring break -- following a series of critical remarks aimed at the district and Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Parents gathered Sunday in a local pub for an emergency meeting of the school council. They said the matter is urgent, but their discussion involves personnel and is private.

"How it all happened is what's been the hardest for everyone ... and isn't sitting well with anyone," said parent Margaret Steward.

Stewart is selling t-shirts in support of the ousted principal, which read "#StandWithTroy." The money goes to the school's PTA, but many parents also want to make their feelings known.

Parent said LaRaviere was a strong leader for the school who brought in great teachers and a strong sense of pride for the Lake View neighborhood school.

However, the outspoken critic of Emanuel and the school board also was featured in an ad for presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. All of which, parents believe, made him a target for the mayor and the school board.

"If we are going to punish somebody for telling the truth, who is also shaping our kids, I'm afraid of the impact and the message that's going to have on our children." said parent Kyle Mecher.

The school board released a statement Thursday explaining the action: "CPS made this decision based on the advice of our attorneys because of alleged acts of misconduct, including violations of a previously board-issued warning resolution. We did not consult the mayor in making this decision."

Many parents said they are skeptical of that. Some are planning a protest Monday morning before school. They said they are not giving up.

"No way it's over. It's just starting." Said parent Sarah Kaiser.

CPS has told LaRaviere him he is being reassigned, but not yet told him to where.

In an email Sunday, LaRaviere declined comment on the advice of his attorney, however noting that CPS has told the media more than they have told him.