High School student retires following sexual harassment investigation

December 30th, 2011    Posted in Sexual Harassment News

NEW MILFORD – A New Milford High School teacher has retired following a sexual harassment claim that was filed against him.

Stephen Flanagan is being investigated by the school district, but the findings concluded that even though there were no indications that Flanagan’s actions “were motivated by sexual desire or interest,” he is unable or unwilling to follow school board policies.

The social studies teacher received strong support from colleagues, former and current students after being suspended earlier this month after a staff member filed a sexual or other harassment complaint against him.

The complaint claims Flanagan missed one meeting and was late to another because he met with a female student “to provide emotional support.”

The staff member who filed the complaint allegedly observed Flanagan “sitting with the student while rubbing her back in a circular, up and down motion.”
The report found “the complaint is credible” and that upon further investigation, it was revealed that Flanagan used his own money to assist the student with “the college process.”

Flanagan was disciplined earlier this year after a complaint was filed by the parent of another female student alleging “inappropriate conduct and gifts by Mr. Flanagan towards that student.”

The report states Flanagan had been warned about complying with school board policies and to follow proper procedures “should he feel the need to attend to the emotional needs of students in the future.”

Sexual harassment can include anything from a general sexual joke to an overt physical attack. The one thing all sexual harassment behaviors have in common is that they are unwanted and unwelcomed. If you or someone you know has been victimized, speak to a skilled team of sexual harassment lawyers to ensure your workplace is rid of fear and hostility.

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Contact a leading team of sexual harassment lawyers today to discuss your options and file a claim.