Walker High School Principal Requests Leave of Absence Amid Controversy

In the latest development arising from a video-related incident at Walker High School, Principal Jason St. Pierre has made an official request to take a leave of absence for the remainder of the 2023-2024 academic year. The decision was confirmed by Livingston Parish Public Schools Superintendent Joe Murphy on Monday, Oct. 9.

This move by St. Pierre comes hot on the heels of a recent controversy that dominated local headlines. A video that captured student Kaylee Timonet dancing at a private afterparty following the school's homecoming was circulated online. Initially shared by a DJ for promotional purposes, the footage led Principal St. Pierre to strip Timonet of her school privileges. This action ignited significant public backlash.

In an attempt to address the situation, St. Pierre issued a public apology to Kaylee Timonet and her family on Sunday, October 8.

A message from Jason St. Pierre, Principal of Walker High Livingston Parish Public Schools

Good afternoon WHS Family,
I believe it is necessary to respond to the public attention that has resulted from my actions regarding Kaylee Timonet’s participation in a dance party that was sponsored at an off-site location following WHS Homecoming.

I have had time to consider my actions, have conversations with the Timonets, and meet with district staff.

First, let me say that I have apologized to the Timonets and I am hopeful that my scheduled meeting with Kaylee’s mom will rectify this situation and allow Kaylee to enjoy the remainder of her senior year at Walker High School.

I will be reinstating Kaylee’s position on the Student Government Association. The SGA was created to give students a voice in their school and their community, to promote leadership qualities, and to represent their school with pride, enthusiasm, and respect. Our student government members are held to a high standard of student behavior. While I stand by that premise, I do believe that standard deserves the input of not just myself and top administrators, but also those student leaders. I hope to create a path moving forward where we can work together to create clear expectations for all.

I will be reinstating my scholarship endorsement for Kaylee. At Walker High, we strive to place our students first in every decision so they may be prepared for whatever career path they may aspire to take, and I believe my action will assist in doing that.

Finally, during my conversation with Kaylee regarding the dance party, the subject of religious beliefs was broached by Kaylee and myself. While that conversation was meant with the best intentions, I do understand it is not my responsibility to determine what students’ or others’ religious beliefs may be – that should be the responsibility of the individual.

As principal of Walker High School, I am faced daily with many difficult decisions for the interest of our students and employees that are never taken lightly. Please know that I always strive to place our students first in every decision. It is for that reason that I have taken this corrective action.
As we move forward, I ask for your continued support of Walker High School, our amazing teachers, and outstanding students.

Thank you,
Jason St. Pierre, Principal
Walker High School

Despite the gesture, tensions did not simmer, leading to his recent decision to step away temporarily from his role.

As of now, the district office is preparing to process St. Pierre's request for the leave of absence. Full story here via WAFB.