WHITMAN —The Whitman Police Department is actively investigating an allegation of inappropriate contact between a teacher and a student, according to Police Chief Scott D. Benton.
At approximately 9:45 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, a Whitman Police School Resource Officer was notified of alleged inappropriate contact between a teacher and a student at the Duval Elementary School.
“On Wednesday, the principal of the Duval Elementary School in Whitman, Dr. Darlene Foley, was informed of an allegation of misconduct by a staff member,” according to a statement issued by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeffrey Szymaniak on Thursday, May 16. “Dr. Foley contacted the Central Office Administration and the School Resource Officer. The allegation is being investigated by the Whitman Police Department. The staff member has been placed on paid administrative leave as the School District and police investigate the allegation.”
Because the alleged incident involves a minor, further details cannot be released at this time.
As of Thursday morning, the investigation remains ongoing and no charges have been filed.
“A positive learning environment and the safety of all members of our school community are a priority in the Whitman-Hanson Regional School District,” Szymaniak stated. “The District appreciates its strong working relationship with both the Whitman and Hanson Public Safety departments to ensure the well-being of our community.