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Public commenters, board members press district for transparency on staff misconduct investigation
Summary
Public commenters and some board members urged the Mercer Island School District to release an internal investigation and adopt clearer notification rules after allegations of staff sexual misconduct surfaced in recent reporting; other board members pushed back, citing victim confidentiality and ongoing law enforcement steps.
Public comment and a lengthy board discussion on student safety and the district—s handling of allegations of staff misconduct dominated the meeting. Several residents described personal or family experiences and urged transparency, while at least one board member pressed for immediate procedural changes and public disclosure of the district—s internal report.
During public input, Todd White, who identified himself as a parent, described his own past experience with abuse and said he was speaking because he had children in the district and wanted assurances: "I'm here to help," he told the board. John Hamer, a long‑time resident and community columnist, urged "sunlight" and transparency and said victims deserve protection and full public accounting. Sara Gareem, Mercer Island PTA Council president, praised…
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