Message from Dr. Parker Regarding Legal Matters
November 4, 2019
Dear Community Members, Colleagues, and Families,
There have been a number of legal claims against the Montclair Public Schools or against individuals within the school district. All of the claims are based on incidents that took place before I became the Interim Superintendent of Schools.
The media has been committed to reporting on these lawsuits and how they are being processed. I take civil rights, discrimination and sexual harassment claims seriously. All such claims will be rigorously investigated and adjudicated.
Unfortunately, these kinds of lawsuits, whether substantiated or not, taint the individuals involved. On October 31, 2019, Erin Roll of the Montclair Local reported on a lawsuit naming those who made the claim as well as individuals allegedly involved who presently serve in the District.
All personnel matters must be kept confidential by district officials as we are bound to do so by the laws of New Jersey. I urge you to suspend judgement regarding these claims until they are fully adjudicated. These kinds of claims, regardless of the accuracy, impact family, friends, and workplace environments.
Please be assured that we have competent and assertive legal support and local agencies who will participate in all such claims. I assure community members, colleagues, and families that students and staff will ork and learn in a safe and respectful environment.