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SM board starts process to terminate teacher from Wapak |
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Monday, 14 September 2009 |
By MIKE BURKHOLDER
Managing Editor
ST. MARYS — Members of the St. Marys Board of Education Friday night took the first step in terminating the contract of a longtime teacher accused of public indecency and voyeurism last week.
Following an executive session, board members unanimously approved a resolution accepting Superintendent Mary Riepenhoff’s recommendation to initiate the termination of Tom Elsass’ contracts with the board on the grounds of immorality. Last week, Elsass, of Wapakoneta, was accused of the misdemeanor charges after a witness allegedly observed him touching himself in the parking lot of the Elida Fieldhouse.
Elsass, who pleaded innocent to the charges Wednesday in Lima Municipal Court, is suspended without pay and did not resign. He was not arrested but was issued two summons on the charges.
The resolution includes language that the board believes Elsass’ alleged conduct “is wholly contrary to his obligations as a professional school teacher and role model for students.” The resolution also includes some of the details on the charges against Elsass.
According to the resolution, Elsass was observed masturbating while standing in the parking lot of the school. Elsass also was, according to the resolution, observed masturbating while looking at a group of girls.
During their Oct. 14 board meeting, members are expected to proceed with formal action to terminate Elsass’ contract unless he files a demand for a hearing before the board or a referee.
“The school acts in accordance with information provided to us,” Riepenhoff told The Evening Leader when asked about taking action before the court case makes its way through the legal process. “And that can be separate from what the courts are doing.”
Riepenhoff said the termination process can take two to three months.
Elsass, 55, teaches mathematics at Memorial High School.
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 15 September 2009 )
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