Parents are divided over the abrupt retirement of a Gastonia principal who accused a 9-year-old boy of sexually harassing his teacher.

Last week, WSOC-TV broke the story of 9-year-old Emanyea Lockett, who was suspended from Brookside Elementary School for allegedly calling his teacher “cute.”

In a letter explaining the child’s suspension to his mother, Chiquita Lockett, school officials say the boy also called the teacher “fine” in a suggestive manner.

After the story made national headlines, Principal Jerry Bostic, told the Gaston Gazette that the Gaston County School District gave him a choice - quit or be fired. He resigned Tuesday night.

The district has since issued a letter of apology to Lockett’s family saying Emanyea was wrongfully suspended and there was no sexual harassment.

The abrupt resignation of Bostic upset some parents in the community who say that after 44 years of service with the school district, he should have been given the benefit of the doubt instead of being forced out. 

Others agree with the decision, saying Bostic deserved be ousted because he treated the child unfairly.

The Lockett family is expected to file a lawsuit in the case.
 

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