Paterson school district pays nearly $400,000 for supervisor’s alleged sexual misconduct
By Jayed Rahman
Published: July 6, 2020
A Paterson school supervisor’s alleged sexual misconduct has led to a $390,000 settlement, according to district records.
School officials approved the settlement agreement on June 17. A redacted copy of the settlement was provided to the Paterson Times late Thursday afternoon.
The district blacked out the names the supervisor and the alleged victim in the settlement agreement. The victim is identified as “Employee 119586.” The alleged perpetrator’s employee number is not mentioned in the resolution or the settlement agreement.
School district officials cited confidentiality to withhold the names of the supervisor and the alleged victim.
Under the agreement, the woman is receiving $265,000 for “emotional distress and unwelcomed physical contact” while her attorney is receiving $125,000 for legal expenses. She had lodged a complaint with the district that triggered an investigation leading to the resignation of the supervisor.
A portion of the settlement figure is covered by the district’s insurance carrier.
“This Agreement is a compromise of disputed claims and is not an admission of liability or wrongdoing by any party. It is entered into as a business judgment bearing in mind the cost and uncertainty of litigation. Employer expressly denies that it has violated any law, statute, ordinance, contract, duty, or obligation whatsoever, or that it has committed any tort or engaged in any discrimination, retaliation, and or improper conduct. By virtue of this Agreement neither party shall be construed as a prevailing party under any rule of court or fee shifting statute,” states the settlement agreement.
The agreement was struck following mediation. School board members were told if the case goes to litigation it could cost the district more money.
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