Former PTO Official At School In Vernon Accused Of Embezzling Book Fair Money

VERNON, CT — Missing Parent-Teacher Organization funds at Maple Street School in Vernon have been traced to a former president of the organization who is now facing an embezzlement-related charge, police said.

Vernon police Tuesday announced the arrest of Avery Fusick, 33, who now lives in New Britain. A warrant was secured
following an investigation that began in November after school officials were notified of an outstanding
balance stemming from prior PTO book fairs, police said.

A review of financial records "identified numerous
transactions believed to be for personal use and unrelated to PTO business," police said. Suspicions arose when a vice president could not access an account and Fusick would not change the password before moving out of town "suddenly."

Fusick surrendered on Tuesday. The warrant has charged her with third-degree larceny. She was released on a written
promise to appear in Rockville Superior Court on April 21, police said.

A warrant shows a debit card associated with the PTO was $3,000 in overdraft debt and was eventually closed. The total loss to the PTO was $4,797.09, according to a warrant.

According to a warrant, personal purchases made with the card when it was in Fusick's possession include regular stops at area gas stations and Dunkin' Donuts.

She also used the car for marijuana dispensary purchases, a car repair, liquor, casino bingo games and even food at a Burger King on Long Island.

PTOs are operated separately from the schools themselves.

"Parent Teacher Organizations are separate entities that are not governed by the Vernon Public Schools or Vernon Board of Education," Vernon Superintendent of School Joseph Macary said. "PTOs have their own bylaws, tax identification
numbers, and bank accounts. PTOs work directly with Scholastic Books and other companies to raise funds.
As soon as the school district became aware of a financial issue within the Maple Street School PTO, administration immediately reported it to the Vernon Police Department. This is an unfortunate incident in our community and we will continue to work collaboratively with the Vernon Police Department and other town agencies."