Wilson High School Principal Brian Chatard sends a message apologizing for unexplained absence and 'lapse in judgment.'

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Wilson High School Principal Brian Chatard apologized Thursday evening for his unexplained absence from the school.

The message to the school community, sent at 6:15 p.m., still does not explain why the principal has not been in his office.

Chatard said that for "personal reasons, and the prioritizing of the best interests of my family" that he has resigned, blaming the "24/7 life of a principal."

The six-year principal says he will miss the community but that: "It is important for me to acknowledge and take responsibility for my recent lapse in judgment...."

Chatard does not explain what the lapse in judgment is.

Read the entire statement below:

Dear Wilson Staff and Families,

First, let me apologize for the confusion and disruption created by my absence these past few days. With that said, I must communicate today that it is for personal reasons, and the prioritizing of the best interests of my family, that I have decided to resign as principal of Wilson. I have shared with friends and colleagues that the 24/7 life of the principal takes its toll. It is important for me to acknowledge and take responsibility for my recent lapse in judgment and to step back at this time so the school can move forward.

As I step away from Wilson and PPS, I want to thank you for your support, your friendship, your trust in me, your hard work, your commitment to serving all students and for the opportunity to have been the principal of Wilson High School. I will miss you all very much.

Very respectfully,

Brian Chatard

See previous coverage: Wilson High Principal Brian Chatard gone just days into school year