Investigation launched into Westerly High school staff member accused of ‘concerning behavior’

WESTERLY, R.I. (WLNE) — A staff member at Westerly High School is being investigated for “concerning behavior” involving a student.

In a letter to parents, Westerly Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Garceau said a male staff member has been accused of directing the inappropriate behavior towards a female student.

The superintendent said both Westerly police and the Attorney General’s office has been notified of the accusations.

Garceau said the staff member is not a teacher and the man has not been at the high school since last Friday.

“As this matter involves issues of student privacy, is a personnel issue, and as it is still being actively investigated by both the district and law enforcement, we can share little more than what appears here at this time,” wrote Garceau in the letter.

“The administration and our teaching staff place the safety of our students above all else. And while, again, we are limited in what can be shared, please know that this matter is receiving the full attention of the district and law enforcement,” he continued.

Westerly Police Chief Paul Gingerella confirmed his agency is investigating the matter.

“Westerly police are investigating a interaction between a juvenile student and an employee of the school department,” the chief wrote.

He said he could not comment further at this time as the investigation is ongoing.