Former Principal Withdraws Amid Assault Controversy

A disturbing video has surfaced allegedly showing Andrew Winter, a former principal at Ritchie Park Elementary School in Montgomery County, stomping on the foot of a six-year-old autistic student during a cafeteria incident in February 2024. Despite being charged with second-degree assault, Winter was acquitted due to insufficient evidence, which has left the boy's mother and many parents outraged. Following his acquittal, Winter was reassigned to Rock Creek Valley Elementary as an interim assistant principal but withdrew amid public backlash and a petition against his placement. His attorney argued that the video does not provide a complete picture of the incident, emphasizing that the case was thoroughly tested in court. The boy's mother expressed her shock at the acquittal, stating that it does not equate to innocence. The controversy continues to raise concerns about Winter's suitability for any educational role.