Hempstead teacher being investigated for inappropriate contact involving students

The Nassau County district attorney’s office is investigating accusations of inappropriate contact between a Hempstead teacher and several students, a spokesman for the office said Thursday.

Hempstead Acting Superintendent Regina Armstrong alerted parents and guardians to the allegations in a letter that was dated Jan. 9. The letter was mailed and posted to the school district's website. On Jan. 4, several students reported to their building principal that their teacher had inappropriate contact with them, Armstrong wrote.

“Immediately, an investigation has commenced, and the teacher was assigned to home," the letter stated. "This was done to eliminate any risk that the alleged behavior would continue."

The district has not released the identity of the teacher or named the school. The letter, which was available in English and Spanish, was sent to the parents of all the students who were in any class with the teacher, Armstrong said.

“Unfortunately, we cannot comment any further on the matter, but know that we are taking this situation very seriously,” Armstrong wrote.

The matter has been referred to the district attorney’s office, and is “under investigation,” said Brendan Brosh, a spokesman for Nassau District Attorney Madeline Singas. He did not provide further comment.

Armstrong on Thursday said the district is fully cooperating with the DA's office.

Hempstead Village Police became involved on Jan. 8, and are conducting their own investigation, Armstrong said. The department could not be reached for comment Thursday.

The district will protect the students who have come forward, and a crisis intervention team is in place for students, Armstrong said.

“The district will continue to update the community immediately as the DA’s office investigates the situation,” she said. “We are taking this matter very seriously and have support in place for our students as they are our top and only concern.”