LI Teacher Says He Was Fired For 'Not Living A Catholic Lifestyle'

SEAFORD, NY — A teacher from Seaford claims he was fired because he is gay. Michael Califano, was a third-grade teacher at the Maria Regina School, until photos kissing his boyfriend on Instagram made their way to the Diocese of Rockville Centre, which runs the school.

"The only reason I was given was I had violated a handbook policy, in which I was not living a Catholic lifestyle," Califano told Patch.

Sean Dolan, a spokesperson for the Diocese of Rockville Centre said in a statement: "For privacy reasons, we do not comment publicly on personnel matters, but we can say that the school did not end Mr. Califano’s employment over his sexuality."

The photos were anonymously sent to the Diocese, which opened an investigation before terminating Califano on Dec. 27. Califano said his sexual orientation was not secret, although he didn't flaunt it in the classroom.

It was heartwarming for Califano as dozens from the community, including parents of his students, stood in solidarity.

"Although the circumstances are unfortunate, I am glad to see that I was doing the job that I felt I had to do for my students," he said. "The endless support that the parents have been giving me, and continue to give to me, is unbelievable."

A Change.org petition received more than 11,000 signatures.

Attorney Joseph Milizio, with the law firm Vishnick McGovern Milizio based in Lake Success, spoke to Califano about his case. Califano did not retain Milizio.

"Michael was terminated as a result of not behaving as a Christian employee is expected to behave," Milizio told Patch. "And from my perspective that is outright discrimination against the gay community and it's employment discrimination as well."

As Califano looks toward legal action, his top priority is simply getting back into the classroom at Maria Regina.

"I've had extremely positive experiences there and I just want to continue that," he said.

Watch the full "Patch Spotlight" interview below.