DCPS works on changes, approves $1.45 million settlement regarding sexual abuse allegations against DA teacher – Action News Jax

All this was due to the consequences of the criminal proceedings against Jeffrey Clayton.

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He was a teacher at the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and was accused and convicted of sexually assaulting a student.

Not only was there one criminal case, but also several lawsuits.

On Tuesday evening, July 7, board members voted to settle the three legal complaints against students.

Jenkins says this agreement is a step in the right direction, but the school board still has a long way to go.

“There is still no transparency for parents,” Jenkins said. “They shouldn’t have to listen to the nightly news to know what’s going on in their child’s classroom.”

READ: New DCPS superintendent focuses on community at swearing-in ceremony

The agenda item stated: “The respective settlement amounts were agreed upon in good faith by representatives of the plaintiffs and defendants in a mediation.”

It goes on to say that the plan for the future is to attract and retain highly qualified educators.

At the beginning of the board meeting, the new superintendent emphasized that student safety is the top priority.

“We must begin a new chapter, but we must not forget the history that has unfolded,” said DCPS Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “We must move forward in a way that makes it clear to our community and our employees that professional and ethical conduct is non-negotiable.”

Dr. Bernier also said that anyone who violates the new ethical standards will face consequences.

DCPS said the compensation will be paid from next year’s school budget.

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