Bedford Schools Superintendent Resigns

BEDFORD, NH — The Bedford schools superintendent resigned Friday amid controversy over the department's support of a teacher convicted of sexually assaulting a student. Chip McGee had been with the school department for 15 years.

"It would be difficult for me to continue to lead the Bedford School District at this point because of circumstances beyond my control," McGee said in a statement.

McGee came under fire regarding the department's support of Kristie Torbick, a former Exeter High School guidance counselor convicted this month of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student. Before she worked in Exeter, Torbick was a guidance counselor for Bedford schools.

Torbick was sentenced to up to five years in prison, according to WMUR. A Bedford High School dean was among dozens who wrote a letter of support for Torbick to the court ahead of her sentencing — a move that angered many in the Bedford community.

McGee did not specifically address the Torbick controversy in his resignation letter.

The Bedford School Board appointed Mike Fournier, principal of McKelvie Intermediate School, as interim superintendent.

The board released this statement:

"The School Board recognizes the strain that recent events have put on the entire staff and school community. We respect the professionalism and dedication of our staff and are confident that they will continue, under Mike’s guidance and leadership, to do the important work of educating the children of the Bedford community."

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