MS principal fired after embezzling

HOWARD CITY, Mich. (WOOD) - The Tri County Middle School principal who has been charged with embezzling from the school's booster club has now been fired.

Bill Cichewicz was originally suspended from his job and then put on administrative leave before the Tri County Area School District fired him.

Cichewicz turned himself in to police and was arraigned Wednesday with a five-year felony of embezzlement of over $1,000 and under $20,000.

He posted a $2,000 bond and will be back in court for a preliminary hearing on July 3.

"As a school community, we are committed to excellence in all that we do," stated Superintendent Al Cumings. "This commitment means that we hold our students, staff, and most of all our leadership accountable for behaviors and choices that do not reflect our community values."

Cumings went on to note that Mr. Cichewicz had accepted the termination and made full restitution.

"I am pleased that in addition to owning his decisions and paying back the missing funds, Mr. Cichewicz also has released a public letter of apology to the community that is on the district web site," stated Cumings.

To read Cichewicz's full apology click here .
 
In a follow up letter to parents, Cumings expressed his hope that the focus of the community would be "on the many positive accomplishments that occurred across our district this past year." In addition, the letter expressed appreciation to the many volunteers and booster club members for their fundraising assistance and hours of hard work that "keep student dreams and activities alive" in an era of shrinking budgets.