Fall River Public School staff member placed on leave over alleged inappropriate conduct with a student

A Fall River Public School staff member has been placed on leave according to a letter sent out to parents.

Carlton Viveiros School Principal Tricia Whitty issued the following:

“I am writing to inform you that we received a report alleging that a staff member engaged in inappropriate (non-sexual) conduct with a student. Given the serious nature of this allegation, I wanted to share this information with families as promptly as possible. 

“In accordance with established policies and protocols, our response to these allegations has included placing relevant staff on administrative leave pending an investigation, notifying the Fall River Police Department, and filing a 51A report (suspected child abuse or neglect) with the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Additionally, upon learning of the allegations, we immediately initiated an investigation and took steps to ensure students’ physical and emotional well-being while the matter remains under review. Please be assured that we will conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation in coordination with the Fall River Police Department. 

“The purpose of this letter is to ensure you hear this information directly from me and to outline Fall River Public Schools’ prompt response to any concern that may impact student safety. I am grateful to the individual who brought this matter to our attention, as well as to our staff and the Fall River Police Department, who are responding promptly and professionally to support the health and safety of all students. Please note that you may be contacted individually as we continue to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation is conducted. 

“While the investigation is underway, your child will continue to receive instruction and services in their specialized classroom, with support from Viveiros’ instructional and social-emotional staff and administrators. 

“At this time, this matter remains under investigation, and I have shared all information that state and federal laws regarding student and employee privacy allow me to disclose. School staff and I, in coordination with the Fall River Police Department, will continue to address this matter and any allegation that could compromise the safety and well-being of our students promptly and proactively.”

Fall River Reporter was contacted by a woman who stated she was the mother of the child involved and that the alleged conduct was physical/violent in nature, leaving a mark. 

School Committee Member Collin Dias stated that he was informed by the administration that multiple staff members have been placed on leave for the incident, not only one staff member.