ONLY ON THE 13TH: Rensselaer Police are investigating the student-employee incident at the high school

As recently as the 13th: Rensselaer Police are investigating an alleged incident between a student and a staff member in the Rensselaer City School District.

Rensselaer Police Deputy Chief John Mooney said a report has been filed but he is not releasing any information about the case because it remains open.

However, 13Investigates received information about the incident from sources. According to these sources, the incident allegedly involved physical contact between a female student and a male employee at Rensselaer Jr./Sr. Secondary school.

It happened within the last two weeks.

While 13Investigates has additional details on the alleged incident, we are holding off on sharing it while we work to confirm it.

Tessa Bentulan reached out to Superintendent Joe Kardash of Rensselaer City Schools this morning via email and phone.

Superintendent Kardash responded via email shortly after posting a statement on the district’s website at 3 p.m

Kardash asked 13Investigates to refer to the statement sent to the school community:

“I would like to inform you that Rensselaer Jr./Sr. last week… The school administration received a complaint from a student that contained allegations against one of our employees. In accordance with our policies and district protocol, we began the investigation immediately and took additional steps to ensure the well-being of everyone involved. Providing a safe and supportive learning environment is paramount to the district and we take the allegations seriously. Due to the nature of the allegations and the ongoing investigation, confidentiality of all involved is critical and further details cannot be disclosed at this time. We understand that this may cause uncertainty and thank you for your patience as we complete our thorough investigation. If you have specific questions or concerns about your child, please contact my office.”

This claim comes about eight months after 13Investigates first reported on a relationship proposal presented to a high school student by the assistant principal of Rensselaer High School.

The form asked the student who he wanted to date and whether it would “cause drama” if the romantic relationship ended.

At the time the story aired, the district said it had stopped using the relationship application.

This is a developing story. As soon as 13investigates confirms some of the alleged details of the incident, it will be reported.