Warwick school director accused of inappropriate behavior on school grounds
By Bianca Buono
@BBuonoABC6
Less than a year after joining Warwick Public Schools as the Director of Secondary Education, Steven Ruscito is now stepping down from the job. His resignation comes after alleged inappropriate behavior with his secretary, Leah Lenahan. Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian was made aware of the situation by Superintendent Philip Thornton.
"The superintendent did call and inform me of the direction that he was going in. Obviously it’s very disappointing solely because we have put together a new team there,” said Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian.
Ruscito started his career in Warwick just last year after serving as the principal of Westerly High School and Middletown High School.
ABC6 attempted to reach Ruscito at his home but nobody answered.
"I think the superintendent did the right thing and moved quickly and brought about the resignation that we had yesterday,” said Avedisian.
The mayor was unable to elaborate on the specifics of Ruscito and Lenahan’s alleged relationship because it’s a personnel matter.
Someone inside the school district told ABC6 that inappropriate behavior happened last week while the two were at the Toll Gate High School prom. We reached out to the superintendent’s office which is handling the matter. They say they aren’t commenting at this time. The mayor, however, reassuring parents in the area that their kids are safe.
"The situation did not involve any students whatsoever and I would tell people that they should not worry about the safety of their children. The superintendent has done everything that he possibly can do to safeguard our children,” Avedisian said.
We reached out to the school department’s human resources department to find out if Lenahan will be stepping down as well. We have not heard back.
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