Huntington school board members voted 5 to 1 in favor of reinstating its high school principal Thursday night.

Dr. Carmela Leonardi had been demoted to the principal of Huntington's alternative high school. In response, Leonardi sued the district, claiming the demotion occurred because she had stood up for the needs of Spanish-speaking students.

Dozens of parents and faculty filled the auditorium at Thursday's meeting, which was called at the last minute and was the second of the week. There were public arguments on both sides, but in the end the board voted for reinstatement.

Prior to the meeting, Leonardi said she might continue to pursue her legal case even if given the opportunity to resume her old duties.