On February 24, 2026, Leslie Walker announced her resignation as the interim principal of Cherry Hill High School East, effective February 27, 2026. The announcement came from Dr. Kwame Morton Sr., the superintendent of Cherry Hill Public Schools, via email to the school community. Walker described her tenure at East as “one of the greatest honors of [her] career” in her formal resignation letter.
Walker’s decision to step down follows personal challenges, particularly concerning her son’s health. During a difficult week that included the February 6 ICE walkout, she received distressing news about her son’s illness, prompting her to reassess her commitments. “I’m going to keep up a real positive attitude [because] you should never, ever let your children know you’re scared. But it’s stressful… and he needs his mom,” she stated in an interview with Eastside.
Stepping into the role of acting principal is Dr. Neil Burti, currently the district’s director of secondary education. Walker emphasized the importance of a principal’s visibility and presence for students, and she felt unable to fulfill this vital role given her personal circumstances. She expressed that her work ethic had driven her to arrive at school as early as 07:00 each day, but the stress of her situation made it increasingly challenging to maintain that commitment.
“I love this job… I will go to my grave knowing I do it well, but this [stress] is constantly going through me,” Walker reflected. Recognizing the need to prioritize her family, she decided to relieve herself of the demands of her position, despite the joy it had brought her.
In her farewell message, Walker expressed gratitude toward the staff, particularly the assistant principals and teachers, for their support. She voiced confidence that the students would be well cared for under the leadership of Dr. Burti and Dr. Cafagna, assuring the school community of their capabilities.
Walker concluded her message by encouraging students to “be kind – to be friends with each other,” leaving them with a final thought about community and support as she transitions away from her role. The Cherry Hill community has recognized her contributions and will undoubtedly feel her absence as they move forward under new leadership.
