NEWSScandal Rocks Oprah's School
Oct. 19 2007, Published 10:50 a.m. ET
A dorm matron at Oprah Winfrey's South African girls-only boarding school has been suspended under suspicion of serious misconduct, Johannesburg police confirm.
While details weren't disclosed, Chief Executive Officer John Samuel said an investigation was launched at Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls ''based on one serious claim of misconduct involving a dormitory parent.''
Oprah expressed tremendous concern and devastation over the allegation, which is also being investigated by South Africa's Child Protection Services and both U.S. and South African private detectives.
Want OK! each day? Sign up here!
''Nothing is more serious or devastating to me than an allegation of misconduct by an adult against any girl at the academy,'' the mogul said in a statement.
The headmistress of the academy has also agreed to a paid leave of absence as to ensure an unbiased investigation, CEO Samuel said.
Oprah opened the school in January to provide disadvantaged girls a suitable education.
