McKeesport Area High School teacher accused of sexual misconduct, on paid leave

MCKEESPORT, Pa. — A teacher at McKeesport Area High School is facing sexual misconduct allegations, sources confirm to Channel 11.

The solicitor confirmed Thursday night that a ChildLine accusation was made, and the teacher is now on paid administrative leave. He also confirmed that the alleged sexual misconduct is now being investigated by police.

“My normal process in all of my school districts is if there is a ChildLine issue we naturally take that person out of contact with students,” said District Solicitor, Gary J. Matta.

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This comes after a series of personnel issues for the district. In August, police said a custodian was caught with drugs, 260 stamp bags of heroin, in their car on school property.

In September, Superintendent Tia Wonzo resigned after allegedly failing to report allegations of a sexual relationship between a security guard and a student. That security guard later took a plea deal.

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“We take very seriously all of those issues any child line that comes before the district we remove that person, but we are in the United States of America people are entitled to due process,” Matta said.

At this time the district cannot release the teacher’s name or grade, but confirmed the most recent allegations are being investigated by county police. Concerned community members we spoke with say they want officials to look closely at the district’s hiring process.

“We have to be more intentional about vetting the teachers a little bit more. We have to find a way to try and find out if the employees are a good fit for the position and the students,” Crystal Littles said.

Community members also said they want to see leadership be held accountable.

“I think a lot needs to change starting with the school board,” Littles said.

The investigation is still ongoing. Channel 11 News will continue to follow this incident.

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