Since beginning my tenure as your principal at Opequon Elementary School, one of my main priorities has been to keep the lines of communication open between our staff and families. Because I value the relationships and sense of family we share here at Opequon, I feel it is important that I share some information with you. There may betimes when the news I share could be uncomfortable and this message is an example of such.
On December 5th, a member of our school staff reported an incident involving a staff member and one of our students, to school administration. Immediate action was taken, and a mandated report was filed with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and with the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department. Following Berkeley County Schools procedures, the staff member was immediately removed from the classroom and placed on administrative leave while the incident was investigated.
I have been informed that the staff member under investigation has been charged with assault and battery of a disabled child which is the direct result of the mandated report. It is important for you to know that the parents of all students impacted were notified of the incident by telephone. While I cannot share additional details as this is both a legal and personnel matter, please know that I will continue to put the safety of our students as a top priority.
I take my role as principal very seriously and have a responsibility to maintain the safety and well-being of all students and staff members at Opequon Elementary School. I encourage you to reach out to me directly with your concerns. We have an environment that every child's safety and well- being is the responsibility of every staff member. It is a common practice that if you see something, you say something and that all allegations are taken seriously.
Your continued support and partnership are greatly appreciated.
