Lawsuit Against Walla Walla Public Schools Over Allegations of Sexual Misconduct | New

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WALLA WALLA, WA-

A lawsuit is brought against Walla Walla Public Schools by the mother of a former seventh grader at Pioneer Middle School. Apparently, the 12-year-old was allegedly sexually harassed between 2015 and 2016 by Michael Jones, a music teacher at the school.

Darrell Cochran is the lawyer representing the family. He says this is a civil lawsuit alleging negligence against Walla Walla Public Schools who hired Michael Jones in 1990.

Cochran says Walla Walla public schools have received reports of sexual misconduct from students but have not taken appropriate action.

“One of the reasons the lawsuit is being brought is to strengthen school districts that their priority is not just to protect the child … But believe a child when he makes an allegation like this – here, “Cochran said.

Cochran says WWPS conducted an investigation in 2008 after several mothers and young daughters filed complaints. Cochran says the district did not fire Jones, but said the allegations were unfounded and allowed him to remain as choir director.

“Previous reports of abuse, especially those that were reported in 2008, are identical to what happened to our client in 2015, which is exactly what we would expect to see with an abusive teacher developing a model. grooming and breeds it over and over again. ”Cochran says.

Cochran said Jones offers private voice and guitar lessons to members of the community, including his students.

He also adds that after his client reported their experiences, Jones was under investigation and it was concluded that he had abused their client – and Jones resigned and left.

“And so one of the reasons to take a lawsuit like this is to bring attention to this … Show the children out there that there is support for them and that they can hopefully find the courage to come forward, ”Cochran said.

He says they want to hold Jones accountable and that Walla Walla public schools are doing what they are supposed to do to protect students.

Walla Walla Public Schools sent NBC Right Now this statement regarding the lawsuit:

“A lawsuit has been filed against the Walla Walla public schools. The complaint alleges that during the 2015-2016 school year, a former teacher, Mr. Michael Jones, allegedly committed professional misconduct.

The District takes the allegations in the lawsuit very seriously. The safety of our students is, and always has been, our number one goal. The District remains committed to ensuring an environment where all of our students feel safe.

Walla Walla Public Schools acknowledges that the allegations set out in the lawsuit touch on sensitive issues for all involved. We are unable to offer further comment on the trial or specific allegations contained in the trial at this time.

As this case progresses through the litigation process, the district will remain committed to providing a safe and positive educational experience for all of its students, teachers, parents and the community. “

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