Bethel School Staff Member Accused of Inappropriate Contact With Children, Resigns

A Berry School staff member was placed on leave and then resigned after school officials learned of a pending investigation for inappropriate activities with minor children.

School officials didn’t name the staff member, but said he or she was put on administrative leave and isn’t allowed onto school property or into the district’s computer system, according to a note sent from Christine Carver, school superintendent.

Since then the staff member has resigned.

“Clearly, any allegation of inappropriate contact with minors is disturbing and causes concerns about the safety of the children in our school community,” she wrote. “Please be reassured that the safety of children is our foremost concern and there are many policies and procedures in place to ensure the wellbeing of all our children.”

State and local authorities are investigating the matter and believe the staff member may have shared information about the activities with people both within and outside the school community. Anyone who has such information is asked to call the state Police Major Crime Squad, Southbury Troop A Detective Flynn at 203-267-2225.

School community members can also contact Carver and Assistant Superintendent Kristen Brooks to share information or discuss concerns.

Counseling services will be made available for students and staff members at Berry School on Feb. 23 and further counseling can be discussed after Monday as well.