CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Albemarle County Public Schools officially announced the resignation of Hollymead principal Joe McCauley, who has been on an administrative leave since June 13.

“I have been extremely grateful for these last four years at Hollymead Elementary School,” McCauley said in a statement released by the division. “It is a wonderful place filled with an incredible staff, wonderful children and caring families. As much as I would have loved to continue in my role, I believe that it is in the best interest of Hollymead Elementary School that new leadership carry it forward in this next part of its journey. New leadership will allow this school to begin and continue a journey of healing that it so very much needs.”

ACPS had previously announced it would name an interim principal for the coming school year, then launch a search for a permanent replacement in February.

McCauley was placed on leave in the wake of the arrest of former Hollymead staffer Michael Swiney on 11 sex crimes against children.

In addition to McCauley’s leave, former Superintendent Dr. Matthew Haas resigned as part of the fallout from the arrest of former Hollymead staffer Michael Swiney. In a subsequent meeting with community members, communication issues were raised that the division is now examining.

Haas was asked to resign by the School Board on June 11. On June 20, the division announced that Haas will receive severance pay and benefits through June 2027. That includes his previously agreed upon 3.75% raise to $257,165.67 starting on July 1 until his contract expires June 30, 2027. He will also receive an $800 bonus this month.