Yuma Catholic Principal apologizes after controversial comment

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Yuma Catholic High School Principal Rhett Stallworth apologizing after making a controversial comment during the high school’s graduation ceremony, upsetting many students, teachers and parents on social media.

The comment compared Yuma Catholic students to those in public schools. A person posted the cell phone video of what Stallworth said. 

“I know you rose to the occasion and finished strong. You worked hard from home while your public school counterparts were given free grades,” said the Principal.

The high school posted the ceremony online but later removed the video after receiving backlash.

Although we did not hear back from principal stallworth or the school, Yuma Catholic released an apology from Stallworth on its facebook page Wednesday. Comments flooded in from people on both sides.

One comment reading:

"If you are truly apologizing for your remarks about public schools, you should include it on the post that had your repulsive video clip, where it will actually be seen by the people you have offended/hurt. What you said is not only personally offensive to me and anyone else involved with public education, it is hurtful and degrading to our teachers, students and graduates."

Facebook User

This person feeling the complete opposite saying:

"To all of you saying things about stallworth is a shame. He made a mistake and is living up to it. You are all acting like you never made mistakes. Only the people we don’t like can make mistakes? And continue to ridicule them for it? Shame on you. That’s not how it works. It’s called forgiveness. I think we all need to start doing more of. We aren’t perfect."

Facebook User

We’ve reached out to YUHSD to hear what it has to say regarding the comment against public high schools in Yuma County. We have yet to hear back. We will keep you updated.