Maryland

Montgomery County Elementary School Principal Who Made ‘Smash Space' Resigns

An elementary school principal in Montgomery County, Maryland, is resigning amid controversy over the "smash space" she created for teachers to relieve tension by swinging baseball bats at a rocking chair.

Kensington Parkwood Elementary School principal Barbara Liess will remain in her position through June 30 to support the transition to the 2017-2018 school year, she announced in a letter sent to parents Tuesday. 

"Recent events have been a distraction from the poisitive things we have been able to achieve," Liess said in her letter. "Therefore, in light of the care that I have for our staff, students, and community, I have decided to seek a new position in Montgomery County Public Schools." 

Liess was the subject of criticism by parents after rumors circulated online about her stress-relief method, which she acknowledges is contrary to what they teach students.

In March, Leiss established a place on the school's loading dock for teachers to take out their frustrations by hacking away at a chair.

On April 29, Leiss said she regretted her decision to create the "smash space" and that the idea came from business articles she read about companies' efforts to reduce stress.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us