Policy Changes?

From: KSFY, SD - 13 Mar 2003

Counselors and investigators want to know exactly what went on at the School for the Deaf in Sioux Falls and the allegations of sexual abuse involving an older student's sexual misconduct. The Board of Regents, which oversees the school, is meeting in Vermillion this week. Board members agreed to address KSFY's questions, but said that would be the end of the discussion on the abuse investigation.

The Board's executive director Tad Perry says the school is safe. As far as policy goes, he says nothing needs to be changed, and that's why the Board will not discuss the case at their meeting. Some parents at the school say the administration has a history of being less than cooperative during abuse investigations. Dr. Perry disagrees. "That's absolutely wrong, absolutely wrong. The school was and I was personally involved with the leadership of the school, and I know every step that was taken. I know the parents were contacted within the first day."

Dr. Perry adds the students involved were dealt with appropriately. He also says the school has no responsibility to update the Board on the investigation.

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