ARVERNE — The principal of one of the mayor's "renewal schools" was punched in the face while breaking up a fight, police and her union said.
The fight broke out at 3:20 p.m. Tuesday, just after dismissal near P.S 42 on Beach 66th Street, police said.
Principal Patricia Finn went out to try to break it up but was punched in the face and stomach during the melee, according to her union and sources. She was also kicked after falling on the ground, according to sources.
She was taken to St. John's Hospital, according to the NYPD. No arrests were made following the fight, the NYPD said.
Finn did not return a call to the school seeking comment.
Ernest Logan, president of the Council of School Supervisors & Administrators, said Tuesday's brawl was an "isolated incident" and Finn was punched trying to break up the fight between two girls.
"As our first concern is with Principal Finn’s wellbeing, we are gratified to know she returned to work Wednesday and again today," he said.
“CSA applauds Principal Finn’s dedication to serving the students of PS 42.”
Department of Education officials said they are "continuing to work closely with [NYPD] as they investigate the incident" and said safety and security of people at the school is a "top priority."
P.S. 42 was selected last year by Mayor Bill de Blasio as one of 94 "renewal" schools, which would receive more resources and programs to help students "learn and thrive," according to the DOE.
It's not clear if there is added security with the program.
The school is the same one where a fight broke out in December between two parents, one who accused the other of sleeping with her "man," police and sources said.
