MANAWA, WI (WTAQ) – Charges are possible against a former Manawa special education teacher as the investigation into his actions continue.
At a special school board meeting on Monday, the Manawa School District fired David Bessette.
According to district officials, last Friday they were made aware of a, “Potential situation involving misconduct (not sexually related) involving a professional staff member.”
An investigation was opened immediately and Bessette was placed on unpaid administrative leave, District Administrator Melanie Oppor told FOX 11.
The district recommended terminating Bessette’s contract, and the 7-member board of education unanimously approved that on Monday. A statement from the district said it was done, “Based on the evidence collected during the investigation.”
“This personnel issue is an isolated incident that is in no way a reflection of the high quality services and programs provided to all School District of Manawa students by our talented and caring staff,” said the press release. “Rest assured there is no ongoing threat to staff and student safety.”
Bessette was in his second year with the district at the Little Wolf Junior/Senior High School.
Manawa Police Chief Jim Gorman said it is a “sensitive case” and that it is currently an active investigation at this time. Gorman says his department is “presently gathering statements and evidence” and that its possible charges could be referred to the Waupaca County D.A. for prosecution.
The Waupaca County Post reports that the mother of the student involved said evidence included a video of the alleged incident.
“We all viewed the 10 minute surveillance video,” Jeanne Gehrke told the Waupaca County Post in a Feb. 9 story. “It was extremely emotional for my husband and I to view the video.”
Gehrke added she felt the district and school board did “an excellent job handling this quickly.”
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