Principal out pending inquiry into alleged "40 acres" comment

A DeKalb County high school principal was removed after he was accused of making racially-charged comments to school staff.

Someone reportedly mounted fliers throughout Lakeside High School that alleged the principal told janitors and security staff at a meeting: “You don’t want to mess with me. I’m a redneck master with a degree. I run these 40 acres!”

School district Superintendent Steve Green issued a statement Wednesday saying there was an investigation into allegations regarding the principal, who had been "removed from the school." Green said any violations of policy or law would be prosecuted "to the fullest extent."

The principal, Jason Clyne, who is white, could not be reached for comment. Typically, in these situations, officials remain on the payroll and work in a different location until an investigation is completed. DeKalb did not identify who would run Lakeside in the principal’s absence.

The alleged flier appeared on Twitter Tuesday, claiming a history of offensive remarks by the principal.

About the Author

Georgia student going to court after being expelled for warning of threat

The middle school student was expelled after he sent messages to friends about a video he'd seen with someone threatening to shoot up area schools.

School starts in about a month in metro Atlanta. Check the dates here.

Most students in metro Atlanta will start school the first week of August, while others go back in July. Some school districts are already preparing for the return.