Former East principal responds to allegations of discrimination.

Former Cherry Hill High School East Principal Daniel Finkle has categorically denied allegations of discrimination and retaliation brought against him by ex-assistant principal David Francis-Maurer. Francis-Maurer filed a lawsuit earlier this year, citing that Finkle and other school officials engaged in discriminatory practices based on his religion and sexual orientation after his contract was not renewed.

In response to the allegations, court documents revealed that Finkle’s legal team argues Francis-Maurer’s dismissal was a consequence of inadequate job performance. The suit contends that Francis-Maurer demonstrated a lack of responsiveness to constructive feedback, was reluctant to collaborate with fellow staff members, and failed to complete essential performance evaluations required for overseeing other employees.

In addition to this legal matter, the Cherry Hill school district is addressing an urgent issue regarding overcrowding in its elementary schools. Currently, five out of the district’s 12 elementary schools are projected to exceed capacity in the coming years. By the 2028-29 school year, the district estimates it will face a shortage of approximately 337 seats for students. To mitigate this problem, officials are exploring options such as redistributing students to less congested schools and converting administrative spaces into classrooms. A committee is diligently working on a preliminary rebalancing plan, with the aim of presenting it to the school board by early next year, and a finalized proposal is expected by mid-2024.

Economic shifts are also affecting local retailers, as some at the Cherry Hill Mall reported a downturn in customer traffic during the recent Black Friday shopping event, compared to previous years. This trend aligns with broader retail patterns, where online shopping continues to gain preference among consumers, influenced by rising economic concerns.

Additionally, the landscape of Cherry Hill is undergoing transformation, with the impending demolition of two historic farmhouses located at the intersection of Springdale and Evesham Roads. The township acquired the 22.54-acre Holly Ravine dairy farm last year for .87 million, with plans to convert the area into preserved open space catering to passive and agricultural uses consistent with its history.

As the community grapples with these significant changes, residents are also encouraged to participate in local events and stay engaged with ongoing developments within the town.

Overall, Cherry Hill is at a crossroads, balancing issues of equity in the educational sphere while also addressing infrastructural changes reflective of economic and demographic shifts. Further updates are anticipated as these matters progress through local channels.

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