An elementary school principal in Montgomery County, Maryland, is resigning amid controversy over the "smash space" she created for teachers to relieve tension by swinging baseball bats at a rocking chair.
Kensington Parkwood Elementary School principal Barbara Liess will remain in her position through June 30 to support the transition to the 2017-2018 school year, she announced in a letter sent to parents Tuesday.
"Recent events have been a distraction from the poisitive things we have been able to achieve," Liess said in her letter. "Therefore, in light of the care that I have for our staff, students, and community, I have decided to seek a new position in Montgomery County Public Schools."
Liess was the subject of criticism by parents after rumors circulated online about her stress-relief method, which she acknowledges is contrary to what they teach students.
In March, Leiss established a place on the school's loading dock for teachers to take out their frustrations by hacking away at a chair.
On April 29, Leiss said she regretted her decision to create the "smash space" and that the idea came from business articles she read about companies' efforts to reduce stress.
