February 1, 2010 

Dear Community Members,

The past few weeks have been particularly difficult for all of us in the Commack School District. While personnel matters within a school district are confidential, the publicity surrounding these events has impacted our community. As educators, we are distressed by these matters, and the effects on us all. Please do not let them overshadow the work of the hundreds of employees and teachers in our District who are dedicated to being leaders and role models for our students. We are proud of our employees and their accomplishments, and have a reputation for hiring highly qualified individuals who choose Commack over other districts because of our reputation for excellence in education.

As most of you know by now, an assistant coach and part time night custodian has been charged with alleged sexual misconduct with a minor, a student in our high school. The coach was immediately suspended on Friday, January 15, and the police were immediately notified. The alleged incident did not involve a member of the team he was coaching, or had coached in the past. It is alleged to have taken place off of school grounds during the winter vacation period. We, as a District, are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of the children in our care. We would like to reiterate that fact, and assure you that our teachers, administrators, and staff members are continually trained to be alert to the signs of any problem our students might be experiencing, and to provide help and assistance when needed.

Last week, a teacher was reassigned due to allegations of an incident that took place at a sporting event. A confidential investigation was conducted in accordance with Education Law requirements.

The kick-off event for the One Book, One Community project on January 19 served to refocus the more than 150 participants on the importance of helping others through trying times. Just one person, such as Greg Mortenson, the author of Three Cups of Tea, affected the lives of thousands by building schools for children and providing them with an education. Students and graduates from our Commack Schools also spoke of the deep satisfaction they feel through their volunteer work. We have once again joined together as a community of caring to collect funds to provide food and supplies to help the Haiti earthquake victims. We continue our efforts as a community to increase humanitarian outreach, as well as to continue providing an academically challenging and safe environment for learning.

Commack is a caring and wonderful place to live and to raise our children. Please join me in supporting our students, our staff, and our School Board as we move forward, and feel free to contact me directly should you have any concerns.