By Adam Nichols
DNAinfo News Editor
A school principal fired after a pupil drowned on a trip to Long Beach has been hired back as a teacher.
Andrew Stillman lost his job as assistant principal of East Harlem's Columbia Secondary School in July during an investigation into the death of Nicole Suriel, 12.
Stillman was accused of choosing Long Beach as a trip destination, despite it having no lifeguards on duty.
He also backed out of chaperoning the trip at the last minute, and instead assigned just three adults to supervise the 24 students - including one staff member who couldn't swim.
But the Daily News reported he will return to the school in the fall.
Former teacher Chance Nalley said the reinstatement has left the school community shocked.
"It was a jaw dropper," she told the News.
"I was just shocked."
Nicole died in June after being dragged out to sea by strong rip currents.
Stillman was hired back by principal Jose Maldonado-Rivera, who was also cited in the investigation for the same reasons as his assistant and placed on probation.
"Principals are responsible for making hiring decisions for their schools," Education Department spokeswoman Ann Forte told the News.
Stillman's return means only a teacher who chaperoned the trip lost her job, while her supervisors remain at the school.
First year teacher Erin Bailey was fired for allowing students to enter the water.
