Centennial board approves release and settlement for teacher accused of harassment; two board members vote no

The Centennial School District Board of School Directors voted 6–2 on Feb. 11 to approve a release and settlement agreement terminating the employment of a district teacher identified in the motion as Dennis Cahill, following law‑enforcement citations connected to alleged harassment.

During new business, the board approved the settlement by majority vote. Two members—Mrs. Lynch and Mrs. Bancato—stated they would vote no. A district representative summarized the administration’s position, saying the agreement “does not constitute an admission of guilt” and that the district entered the agreement after weighing legal, financial and procedural factors to avoid protracted litigation and limit disruption to the school community.

The district’s statement said the agreement ends Cahill’s employment effective Feb. 11 and removes the need for witnesses to testify in litigation. The administration said it will continue to work with law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and encouraged anyone with student‑safety concerns to report them through appropriate channels.

Board members who opposed the agreement described their votes as strongly negative on principle; one said, “my mom heart cannot vote yes for this.” A district official also said the departing employee will have benefits through Aug. 31, 2025, and can continue health coverage under COBRA afterward.

The board noted the district accepted the retirement submission as part of the settlement and that the agreement was drafted and reviewed by district legal counsel. Administration stated there would be no further public comments on the matter from administration during the meeting.