Benton Harbor Area Schools is investigating a complaint of inappropriate conduct involving multiple employees.
Superintendent Simone Griffin issued a statement late Wednesday, saying administrators became aware of an allegation of inappropriate conduct involving a member of the support staff and a high school student on Monday. She says the district immediately launched an internal investigation into the matter and contacted police.
As a result of the internal investigation, Griffin says a support staff member has been placed on unpaid leave and three contracted employees have been terminated. She adds the district is cooperating with Michigan State Police and will continue to do so.
Griffin says the internal review is also ongoing and active, and she encourages anyone with information on the matter to contact her office.
Griffin says, “At Benton Harbor Area Schools, we take all reports of inappropriate or potentially illegal behavior or misconduct seriously and thoroughly investigate any such allegations or reports.” She concludes by saying the situation may come as a shock to the community, but the allegations do not reflect the “vast majority” of employees.
Below is Dr. Griffin’s full statement:
From the Office of the Superintendent
Dear Benton Harbor Area Schools families,
At Benton Harbor Area Schools, the safety, security and well-being of our students and school community is our top priority. I’m writing to provide an update regarding an allegation of inappropriate conduct involving school employees and a Benton Harbor High School student.
On Monday, Oct. 27, school administrators became aware of an allegation of inappropriate conduct involving a member of our support staff and a high school student. We immediately launched an internal investigation into the matter consistent with our school policies and procedures. We also contacted local law enforcement.
As a result of our initial review, a support staff member has been placed on unpaid leave and three contracted employees have been terminated. We are cooperating with the Michigan State Police Office in their investigation and will continue to do so. Our internal review is also ongoing and active, and I encourage anyone with information regarding this matter to contact my office directly at simone.griffin@bhas.org. At Benton Harbor Area Schools, we take all reports of inappropriate or potentially illegal behavior or misconduct seriously and thoroughly investigate any such allegations or reports.
I understand this update may come as a shock and disappointment to our school community. Please know these alleged behaviors do not reflect the vast majority of our amazing school employees who work hard every day to provide a quality education to our students and conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism. Our top priority remains the safety and well-being of all Benton Harbor students, and we are committed to maintaining a secure, supportive learning environment that helps them succeed.
We will provide updates as information becomes available and appropriate to share.
Sincerely,
Simone Griffin, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Benton Harbor Area Schools
