Principal Deb Beaupre has been put on paid leave.

Superintendent Flanagan sent an email yesterday (10/23) informing the Burlington High School community of the decision.

Beaupre’s leave is connected to her pulling the fire alarm during lunch on Wednesday (10/18) in response to a student altercation. 

“I decided to evacuate the building to ensure safety and provide emotional space to students and staff amid a heightened, atypical situation,” Beaupre said in an email to families that went out Friday (10/20).

Under Vermont law, anyone who pulls a fire alarm when there is not fire “…shall be imprisoned for not more than one year or fined not more than $1,000.00, or both.” The incident is still under investigation and Flanagan did not give a timeframe for when it will be resolved. 

Beaupre is the 6th Principal BHS has had in the last 7 years. 

Assistant Principal Sabrina Westdijk will take over the role of Principal until further notice.