school violence expert witness

This case involves sexual abuse at a middle school. Over a period of several months, the child would routinely see the administrative dean on after school for extra help. At these meetings, the dean would close the blinds and doors while alone with the student and molest her. The student exhibited behavioral issues during this period. The parents then confronted the dean where he abruptly resigned. He subsequently admitted to the ongoing abuse and was convicted. Plaintiff’s counsel seeks an expert to speak to the negligent hiring and supervision of the individual by the school. There were complaints made by the vice principal as well as other teachers, but there was no investigation made.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1) Please discuss your background in student safety, as it relates to proper retention and supervision of the employees that work with students.

2) Do you believe these sexual encounters could have been avoided?

3) Have you ever served as an expert witness on a case similar to the one described above?

Expert Witness Response E-009481

I have an extensive background in school safety and administration. My background includes having been a public and private school principal where I was responsible for developing and implementing policies and day-to-day procedures governing student safety; including safety from the harm of sexual harassment and abuse from other students or employees. In my capacity as principal, I was responsible for hiring staff. I also served as a public school superintendent of schools as well as a manager of programs and services in a major state department of education where review and evaluation of policies and procedures of public schools with regard to hiring, training and retention of employees was conducted.