Blue Valley North teacher placed on leave, accused of ‘inappropriate interactions’
A teacher of performing arts and theater has been placed on administrative leave amid allegations of inappropriate contact with students at Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, according to an email sent to students and parents this week.
In the email, the school said the teacher in question was “immediately placed on administrative leave and removed from contact with students” when the school received reports of “inappropriate interactions” between him and his students. The school said it contacted state and local authorities on the matter.
Overland Park police are investigating the incident, police spokesman John Lacy said in an email to The Star Thursday night.
According to Kaci Brutto, a Blue Valley district spokeswoman, the teacher was hired by the district in July 2016. He was in his third year with the district before he was placed on leave this week.
Brutto said the following statement, signed by Blue Valley North High School Principal Tyson Ostroski, was sent on Tuesday to families of current and former students of the teacher. The Star has omitted the teacher’s name because he has not been charged.
“Our top priority at Blue Valley North is the safety and well-being of our students. It is very important to us that we have your confidence and are constantly communicating with you about important situations that may impact our school. For that reason, I am writing to inform you of a situation at North, how we have responded to the situation and how we plan to move forward.
“We have received reports of inappropriate interactions between your child’s theater/performing arts teacher and students. (The teacher) was immediately placed on administrative leave and removed from contact with students. The proper state and local authorities were informed and an investigation was launched. Should you or your child have any concerns regarding his or her experience in theater or at Blue Valley North, please reach out to Kelli Kurle or me.
“While the investigation continues, it was determined that (the teacher) will not be returning to Blue Valley North or the Blue Valley School District. I want to assure you that providing your child the best experience possible in theater is a priority. I am working to identify a new teacher, but realize that it may take some time to find the right fit for Blue Valley North. I look forward to updating you once we have hired a long-term substitute or new teacher.
“These types of situations are always difficult and sensitive. Please know that we are taking every step in our control to continue to make sure our students can attend school in a safe and nurturing environment.”
The police investigation was ongoing. Lacy said in an email it was too early in the investigation to determine whether or not charges will be filed.
This story was originally published November 2, 2018 at 9:44 AM.