Principal Suspended Over Misuse of Student Funds
The principal of Wyandanch Memorial High School in Long Island has been suspended amid allegations of misusing student funds for personal benefits, including extravagant dinners, staff parties with alcohol, and jet ski rentals.
Paul Sibrees, who has been at the helm of the school for many years, is now on administrative leave, with Principal Noel Rios stepping in, as noted by district Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright. An audit conducted in February raised red flags about Mr. Sibrees reimbursing fraternity funds for what were described as “questionable” expenses and even signing checks made out to himself, according to the statement.
While the school didn’t specify the reasons for Sibrees’s suspension, it coincides closely with a critical audit from RS Abrams & Company, an accounting firm based on the island. This audit revealed that he had misappropriated funds from the Kappa Club account, which was originally designated for after-school student activities.
In a letter to parents, Dr. Wright stated, “As this is a personnel matter, I cannot share any further details.” He added that the decision was made with careful consideration, emphasizing the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe and stable learning environment for students.
The audit showed Sibrees taking money intended for a mentoring program and spending it on lavish items like steak and lobster dinners, open bar staff parties, and even a purchase mysteriously labeled “Ski Rental – Bermuda Trip,” highlighting some particularly bold misuse of funds.
Since 2009, Sibrees has overseen the school and has reportedly issued over 40 suspicious refunds totaling more than $35,500 through the school’s clubs from July 2021 to November 2024. However, auditors noted that these actions were never formally approved by the school board.
Moreover, the audit underscored that the spending was in violation of guidelines set forth by the New York State Department of Education regarding extracurricular funding.
As outlined in the auditor’s report, there was uncertainty about the appropriateness of employee compensation for the Kappa Club advisor, who happens to be the principal.
The audit continued by stating, “We identified questionable expenditures within the Extracurricular Activities Fund that did not seem directly related to extracurricular activities.”
It was revealed that not only did Sibrees manage the club’s cash, but he also approved expenditures and signed his own checks for reimbursements, all without proper independent oversight from district officials—other than the club treasurer who held dual roles as the executive secretary.
The auditors also flagged numerous poorly documented donations related to the Kappa Club and another middle school club, citing inconsistencies in records and a lack of clarity in detailing how the funds were collected and spent.
As further investigations unfold, the district has enlisted outside legal counsel. It remains unclear whether Sibrees’s leave is paid or unpaid.
