Two Montville administrators charged with failing to report a so-called “fight club” at Montville High School and the substitute teacher accused of overseeing it appeared before a judge Tuesday.
Former substitute teacher Ryan Fish’s attorney applied for accelerated rehabilitation. If granted, and conditions are followed, Fish could have his case dismissed.
Vice Principal Tatiana Patten, charged for being a mandated reporter who failed to report abuse, had her case continued to pre-trial.
Former Principal Jeffrey Theodoss was granted a nolle, which means the case will not be prosecuted. After 13 months the charges will be dismissed.
Theodoss’ attorney, Dick Brown, maintains that his client did not violate any laws, including reporting requirements.
Brown said Theodoss retired from the high school after the embarrassment of the case soured him on a job he loved.
“…he takes great pride in his work. He loved the school, he loved the faculty, so it was very difficult for him to go through this whole embarrassing process of being arrested,” Brown said on the phone with NBC Connecticut.
Superintendent Brian Levesque was also charged for failing to report. He appeared in court at an earlier date and had his case continued to pre-trial as well. He’s due back on Oct. 23.
Montville’s Acting Superintendent Laurie Pallin said she has assured her staff they should not be intimidated to file a report as a mandated reporter and even offered to have someone assist them.
“Making that call is something you do even if you think maybe it’s not true,” Pallin said.
All adults who have contact with children in the district – whether a bus driver or a teacher, etc. – went through a fresh round of mandated reporter training in April, after this was brought to light.
Montville mom Michelle Calash has a child at the high school and runs a child care program. As a mandated reporter herself, she wants the state the check in more frequently with the school.
“Going back, at least for a while, just making sure nothing’s happening and holding them accountable,” Calash said.
