More than 100 concerned parents met with Great Salt Bay School officials Tuesday evening to hear how school officials are dealing with the arrest of a 4th grade teacher.
What they got was assurance and concern.
“Our goal is to provide a safe and secure place for our children. We try to act quickly and in the best interest of our kids,” said Supt. Bob Bouchard.
“It is a tragic event on many levels. We are not here to find guilt or innocence but to tell you what we are trying to do,” said Principal Jeff Boston.
The comments from Bouchard and Boston drew praise from school board president Jim Cosgrove, himself the parent of children who played basketball for the 4th grade teacher and coach.
“I am proud of Jeff and Bob. They acted properly and quickly,” he said.
The hour-long meeting came on the heels of the arrest late last week of veteran teacher Peter Simonds on nine counts of improper sexual touching and contact. He was released on $20,000 bond. His court case is pending.
Boston reassured parents that while police are still investigating the allegations against Simonds, they are interviewing other possible victims. He said no child will be questioned without a parent being present. All investigations will take place away from the school, he said.
School officials also explained what was done last Thursday when police notified them of the investigation. After a day of interviews between police, parents, students and the teacher, Simonds submitted his letter of resignation.
Citing personal regulations, Bouchard declined to offer additional details.
After a meeting with his staff, Boston said the decision was made to offer the 4th graders and their new teacher, Chris Coleman, a fresh start.
“We made a move on Sunday changing their classroom to another part of the building. I think the kids and parents are transitioning as expected,” he said.
Another teachers’ technique used to help the 4th graders get to know and work together is the creation of individual portraits that will be put together in a mural to show their togetherness.
“We want to give them the tools to move forward,” said Maria Pashke, a school social worker.
Rebecca Cannon, another school social worker, told parents they have counseled students and parents about personal safety and told them about outside agencies also able to offer help for children and parents.
Damariscotta Police Chief Steve Drake cautioned parents not to pressure their children.
“Don’t give them the third degree. Just tell them you want to talk to them. If you pressure your kids, you might make them think they have done something wrong,” he said.
“You know your kids, it is not their fault. The ones who have come forward are very brave young ladies,” he said.
Some parents told Drake he was being too critical of the teacher.
“I feel you have abused your position,” one said, referring to Drake’s comments to a television reporter. Drake denied he was being unfair.
Boston told parents to call him or other school officials with their concerns. He and Bouchard stayed after the meeting to quietly chat with parents and groups of parents about the situation.
“You are our biggest supporters. We will work through this. Please call me. Let me know how we can help you get through this,” Boston said.
