EVERETT, Mass. — The Everett School Committee has voted to place Superintendent of Schools Frederick Foresteire on administrative leave amid sexual harassment allegations against him.
The School Committee, which named Janice Gothier as interim superintendent, also voted to allocate $50,000 to pay for an independent investigation into the allegations. The moves came after two women came forward alleging that Forestiere sexually harassed them.
“I believe the school committee took the appropriate action tonight by voting to place the superintendent on administrative leave pending a thorough investigation of these allegations,” -Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria
— Julie Leonardi (@JulieLeonardiTV) December 18, 2018
Dozens of people packed inside Everett High School on Monday night waiting for the Everett School Committee to return from their closed executive session.
Parents and educators told Boston 25 News that they wanted committee members to vote to place Foresteire on leave.
"He should be placed on leave until we get to the bottom of it for the safety of the children," said parent Sarah Hilinski.
Members of the education coalition that demanded answers say they're satisfied with the decision.
"I’m feeling happy our demands were acknowledged, right? I don’t think this is ever a situation where anyone could feel happy or sad about what’s going on. But I think we can feel validated that we asked for something and we got it, we wanted a paid admin leave. We wanted an independent investigation and the school committee listened," said Jessica Haralson.
Meanwhile, educators say this is only the beginning.
"It’s really about transparency, accountability so this is just a first step forward," said Iliana Panameno.
In a statement, Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria supported the School Committee's decision.
“I believe the School Committee took the appropriate action tonight by voting to place the superintendent on administrative leave pending a thorough investigation of these allegations," DeMaria said.
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