A student walkout at Metter High School Friday was brief and all students were "in class on time," said Candler County School Superintendent Dr. Tom Bigwood.

            The student protest concerned a school board decision to not renew the principal's contract. Michelle Cliett, Metter High School's current principal, has held that position for about six years, he said.

            The incident took place "around 7:30 to 7:45," he said.

            Candler County Assistant School Superintendent Hezekiah Campbell "went out there" to the school Friday morning in anticipation of the walk-out.

            Bigwood said the incident was short-lived and students who participated were in classes by the time school started. Only a few students were seen outside the school Friday morning around 8 p.m. , and they all appeared to be hurrying to class after being dropped off.

            The Candler County School board "took recommendations for principals for the 2008-2009 school year" Thursday during a school board meeting, he said., Cliett " was not recommended back for the next school year."

             When asked to clarify whether Cliett's contract was simply not renewed, Bigwood said yes, but declined to comment further.

            The school board will release a statement Monday, he said.

            "We are obviously concerned about the children's welfare," he said.