Park School launches investigation into allegations that former teachers had sex with students

The Park School of Buffalo's Board of Trustees has launched an investigation into claims that four former teachers may have engaged in inappropriate behavior with high school students in the 1970s and 1980s.

The investigation follows recent notifications from two other schools, along with claims made by two alumni. Some of the behavior was sexual in nature, the school said. 

Two of the four teachers connected to the investigation are believed to be dead, while two others are no longer teaching. 

"As educators, trustees, and parents who understand the importance that trust plays in building authentic and appropriate relationships with students, we were incredibly sad and terribly sorry for their experiences, and wish to affirm that publicly," school leaders said in a statement about the alumni who came forward. "We are grateful for their courage in sharing their concerns and determined to treat them sensitively and appropriately." 

A board committee, made up of the board president, vice president, head of school, head of school-elect and a trustee will oversee the investigation and report back to the full board. 

The Park School is working with the Buffalo law firm Hodgson Russ LLP in this investigation. 

The school is asking any alumni who want to share any experiences of teacher misconduct to contact Hodgson Russ at (716) 848-1547 or email jhilliker@hodgsonruss.com.

Founded in 1912, the Park School of Buffalo is an independent college preparatory school in Snyder. Approximately 300 students are enrolled in prekindergarten through 12th grade.