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Decatur students hold rally for suspended Decatur High media clerk

Decatur

Decatur students hold rally for suspended Decatur High media clerk

Supporters of media clerk Susan Riley prepare for a demonstration on her behalf being held today, Feb. 29. Photo by Jonathan Phillips
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Supporters of media clerk Susan Riley prepare for a demonstration on her behalf being held today, Feb. 29. Photo by Jonathan Phillips

Supporters of media clerk Susan Riley prepare for a demonstration on her behalf being held today, Feb. 29. Photo by Jonathan Phillips

This story has been updated. 

Supporters of media clerk Susan Riley gathered in front of Decatur High School this morning to show support for a person who is beloved by students and staff.

Riley’s sudden termination on Friday created an uproar among Decatur High students, alumni parents and staff. She was not told why she was let go. On Sunday, Superintendent David Dude backtracked, placing Riley on paid administrative leave pending an outside review.

Decaturish contributors Mariann Martin and Jonathan Phillips attended the rally. Martin says more than 100 people gathered in the lot across from the school. Dude stood with the crowd. About 30 staff and faculty lined up in front of the school before classes started. Students, former students and former staff shared stories about Riley. People driving past the scene slowed down and honked their horns in a show of support.

Martin was also shown a copy of a text message from Riley.

“Funny thing happened this weekend,” she wrote. “I got fired and I’ve never felt more loved and validated in all my life. I just know it’s gonna be OK. Thankful for my faith.”

We will provide a full recap of the rally shortly.

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