ARLINGTON, Va. (WUSA9) -- An Arlington elementary school principal has resigned shortly after she was arrested for a DUI.
Jacqueline Smith, former principal of Drew Model Elementary School, was charged with a DUI on March 7.
Arlington police say Smith was stopped along the 1100 block of S. Rolfe St. around 3:30 a.m. on March 7 after an officer saw her swerving in and out of lanes. We're told she almost hit a parked car and stopped at a green light.
Police say she failed a sobriety test and was arrested.
The following letter was sent home to Drew Model families and staff:
Dear Drew Staff, Families and Community Members,
We wanted to let you know that Jackie Smith, Principal of Drew, has informed us that she plans to retire from her position with the Arlington Public Schools for personal reasons. She will be on leave the remainder of this week, and will retire effective March 17. We wish her the best in the future.
Ms. Smith said, "I have been grateful for my 21 years in Arlington as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. The support I have received through the years from Dr. Murphy, APS administrators, the School Board, and the many dedicated teachers and educational leaders throughout the county has been greatly appreciated. I want to express my best wishes to the Drew Model School staff, students and community, and I hope for their continued success as they work to provide excellent learning opportunities for our children."
For the remainder of the 2013-14 school year, Theresa Bratt will serve as interim principal for Drew Model School. Ms. Bratt, who retired from APS in 2013, has over 40 years of successful experience as an APS educator and administrator.
As always, we appreciate your involvement and partnership to ensure a high quality educational experience for Arlington children.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pat Murphy
Superintendent
