The Department of Education and Training has completed an investigation that has caused Bendigo South East College principal Ernie Fleming to be absent for more than 14 months.
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However, it remains unclear exactly when the matter will be resolved.
A spokesman confirmed the department was now considering the findings “as a matter of priority”.
“While we are now in a decision making phase there are still a number of steps to be taken before the issue is fully resolved,” he said.
Swan Hill College executive principal Julie Robertson is beginning her tenure as acting principal at BSE this term. She replaces Dale Pearce, who is moving back to his job as head of Bendigo Senior Secondary College.
Ernie Fleming has been on a period of extended absence since term 1, 2017.
“We’re working closely with the school to ensure that learning is not disrupted,’’ the department spokesman said.
The Bendigo Advertiser understands the investigation was delayed in part because the initial investigator took a new job before the matter was finalised.
The new investigator needed time to form their own conclusions.
The length of the investigation has frustrated many in the school community. In recent months a small group of former staff, students and community members have worked to pressure the department to hasten a resolution.
Related (January 2017): Principal will not return for start of school year
Group member Ken McCulloch reacted to today’s developments by saying the process has been “ridiculously long winded”.
“The education department needs to look at how it manages complaints like this and make sure it does not happen again,’’ he said.
Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said that on a number of occasions she had spoken to the education minister and secretary of the department regarding frustrations members of the community had expressed to her about the length of the investigation.
Mr Fleming is said to remain dedicated to returning to his job.
Two weeks ago, lawyer David Schier said his client earnestly hoped the matter was resolved as soon as possible.
Tom O'Callaghan
I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories.
I grew up in Bendigo and I want to tell your stories.
