Dedham Principal Charged With Drunk Driving Granted Leave Of Absence

DEDHAM (CBS) – A former Massachusetts principal of the year who was charged with drunk driving earlier this month asked for and received a leave of absence for the remainder of the school year.

Superintendent of Schools Michael Welch told parents in a letter on Friday that Dedham Middle School principal Debra Gately asked for the leave of absence for the rest of the year "in order to provide time and space to step back and address her needs."

Gately was arrested on April 3 and charged with drunk driving. A day later she was placed on administrative leave.

During a pre-trial hearing on Monday, Gately admitted to driving drunk and her case was continued without a finding for one year. If Gately stays out of trouble, the charge will be removed from her record.

Welch said he has been in contact with Gately "virtually every day" since her arrest.

"I know this has been a challenging period for Dedham Middle School, and for the entire district and community," said Welch.