Needham HS Teacher Resigns; Accused Of Asking Girl To Lift Shirt

NEEDHAM, MA — A Needham High School teacher has resigned following a report that he asked a girl for directions and to pull up her shirt.

Needham Superintendent Daniel Gutekanst confirmed to WCVB that the teacher, who has not been publicly identified, has left the school. He had no further comment, stating that it is not the policy or practice of the Needham Public Schools to discuss personnel matters.

Sources tell the network that while in another town, the teacher asked a teenage girl for directions and offered her money to lift her shirt.

The teacher is due in court for a show cause hearing, which is not open to the public. During the hearing, a clerk magistrate will determine if criminal charges are warranted. The teacher has yet to face any charges.

In a letter to parents, Gutekanst summarized his statement to WCVB and wrote:

"We prioritize student safety, security, and well being in the Needham Public Schools. If we are ever made aware of any behavior that would injure, hurt, or harm a child, we would deal with the situation immediately and swiftly. We are aware of no circumstance in which the teacher in question has ever jeopardized the safety or well being of any Needham Public School students. Should we ever become aware of concerning, inappropriate, or illegal behavior involving any staff member (past or present), we would take immediate action, including, if necessary, involving appropriate law enforcement officials."

Image Credit: Dan Libon/Patch