Essington School principal Karen Rohrs resigns suddenly for ‘personal reasons’

An elite Darwin school is on the hunt for a new principal, after the head of the institution announced her sudden departure.

Essington School principal Karen Rohrs has resigned for personal reasons and will finish up at the end of this term. Picture: Supplied

The Essington School has announced the sudden resignation of principal Karen Rohrs for “personal reasons” less than 18 months after she stepped into the role.

Ms Rohrs will leave the school at the end of this term after serving as principal and chief executive since June last year following a stint as deputy under Brian Kennelly in 2021.

On Tuesday, members of the school’s board released a statement expressing their disappointment with Ms Rohrs’ resignation while saying they respect and support her decision.

Chairman Nathan Reichstein said Ms Rohrs had been “instrumental in the development and progress of many projects”, including campus upgrades and the launch of the school’s masterplan.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the many contributions Karen ha(s) made to our school and its community,” he said.

“In addition to supporting our staff in our mission of delivering Darwin students with inspiring education and building connection within our community, her tireless work on a range of projects has been invaluable.”

The Essington School, Darwin is on the hunt for a new school principal. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

It comes just weeks after Ms Rohrs was forced to reassure parents after the NT News revealed a former Essington student had allegedly been repeatedly sexually abused by other pupils prior to her time in the top job.

The parents of the five-year-old former student are suing the school in the Supreme Court, claiming they suffered “nervous shock” from their son’s abuse, which a senior staff member then tried to cover up “to protect the school”.

Mr Reichstein said the school remained “committed to the success of students, the wellbeing of staff and in maintaining transparency with the community” during the “transitionary period”.

“The board has full confidence in the leadership team and outstanding staff’s ability to maintain the unrivalled experience that has made Essington the leaders of education in the Northern Territory,” he said.

“The search for a replacement to lead the school from 2024 and beyond will commence immediately.

“The board is confident of identifying and appointing an experienced candidate whose philosophy aligns closely with Essington’s purpose, values and vision, and who recognises the unique community spirit of the Essington School.”

Ms Rohrs expressed her appreciation for the opportunity “to serve in our school community”, saying her “commitment to ensuring a smooth transition remains unwavering”.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to work alongside dedicated teachers, staff, students and parents,” she said.