The following statement was released by Ohio County Schools following the arrest of 61-year-old Richard L. McCardle on one felony count of child abuse. McCardle is the former principal of Wheeling Middle School and was allegedly involved in an incident with a student in early March.
“The Ohio County Board of Education acknowledges the criminal charge brought against a former principal for conduct that occurred during his employment with the district.
“Upon learning of the incident, the district acted promptly and in accordance with its legal obligations which included removing the principal from his duties, making all required mandatory reports, and notifying local law enforcement, the West Virginia Department of Human Services, the West Virginia Department of Education, and the student’s family.
“That principal’s position has been filled, and the district has continued its operations without interruption.
“The school system remains committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all students and staff and will continue to cooperate fully with any ongoing investigations as it has all along. The West Virginia Department of Education, as the applicable licensure authority, is expected to review the matter and take appropriate action regarding the individual’s professional credentials.
“Given this is a pending criminal matter, the school system will have no further comment.”
