Atlantic City High School Principal Dr. Constance Days-Chapman made a triumphant return to the building on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
She was greeted in pep-rally style, complete with cheerleaders, the marching band, and other students as well as her friends and family, marking her first day back after nearly two years away from the school. Students wore T-shirts and made signs expressing how important Dr. Days-Chapman is to the school community.
“I look forward to reconnecting with our staff and our students and continuing the work that we’ve started,” said Days-Chapman. “I’m elated. This shows the love that they have for me and the love that I have for them.”
Dr. Days-Chapman had previously been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations that she failed to report an accusation of child abuse involving Mayor Marty S. Small Sr. and Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office ultimately declined to pursue charges after the mayor, the plaintiff in the related case, was fully exonerated following a jury trial. The prosecutor’s office also declined to pursue charges against the superintendent, clearing the way for the mayor, superintendent, and principal to return to their duties without the cloud of ongoing legal proceedings.
“We’re excited about her return to the high school,” Dr. Small said. “We look forward to her continued leadership.”
Dr. Days-Chapman began her day meeting with the superintendent before returning to Atlantic City High School, where she was surprised with a welcome ceremony.
Donald Harris, Director of Secondary Education, who served as the school’s lead administrator during her absence, praised Dr. Days-Chapman upon her return. “For the last 22 months, her name has been publicly dragged through the mud, and she has come through it like the phoenix,” Harris said. “She handled it with grace and class, and now she is back in her rightful place at Atlantic City High School as principal. We are proud to welcome her back. Now let’s get to work.”
During her time away from the school, the principal completed her doctorate degree.
“I used this time wisely, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to the future work at Atlantic City High School,” Dr. Days-Chapman said. “I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers I have received over the last nearly two years.”
To view our gallery of Dr. Days-Chapman’s return, click the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/BYg9uCoWTo547KLL9
