Harvey's expression became solemn. "I am willing to stake my reputation and vouch for the fact that I did not help Yolanda cheat. Her grades were achieved through her own hard work!"
"Mr. Coleman, it's not that we don't believe you. It's just that given her past history and her behavior since joining the academy, she doesn't meet First Academy's standards."
Hector quickly changed the topic. "The school is rife with rumors about her being involved in romantic relationships, two-timing, and even seducing her own sister's fiancé. If word of this gets out, what will happen to our academy's reputation?"
"I believe this is all a misunderstanding. Yolanda is not that kind of person!" Harvey exclaimed.
However, no one in the conference room was swayed by Harvey's weak defense.
"Mr. Coleman, save those words for the concerned parents. They're worried about having their children study alongside such a problematic student."
"So what are you suggesting?" Harvey asked, his expression tense.
"We want Yolanda expelled!"
"That's right!"
"Our role of the school board is to maintain the integrity of First Academy. If you insist on siding with a problematic student, we'll have to reconsider whether you're fit to remain as the principal."
The board of directors had the authority to appoint or remove the principal. If two-thirds of the votes were in favor, Harvey could be dismissed.
Harvey understood the stakes and what he was risking, but he didn't waver in standing by Yolanda.
He wanted to bring First Academy to new heights. At the same time, he firmly believed that a rare talent like Yolanda deserved fair treatment.
Just as Harvey was caught between a rock and a hard place, Yolanda spoke up again. "Mr. Lowey, is it?"
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