Schools
O'Neill Addresses Misinformation in Teacher Hiring Process
Following the arrest of a second teacher in the last year for alleged sexual assault, interim Superintendent James O'Neill outlines district policy, procedures.
Interim Superintendent James O'Neill addressed misinformation in the district's hiring process of teachers at Monday night's West Orange's Board of Education meeting, the Alternative Press reported.
According to the report, O'Neill explained the procedures for background checks during a teacher's hiring process. Principals review Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying every year and provide at least one sexual harassment workshop every five years.
He also said school principals advise staff to not be alone with students.
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The superintendent's address comes less than a week after a second West Orange teacher, Christopher Yonitch of Livingston, was arrested for alleged sex assault of a student in the last year.
Yonitch is currently on paid leave until the case is resolved. A certified teacher will take on Yonitch's class for the remainder of the school year.
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The superintendent reminded residents everyone is innocent until proven guilty, according the Alternative Press.
The board hopes to have a replacement for Yonitch shortly.
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