Parents call for new policies after arrests of 2 Plum HS teachers

PLUM, Pa. — Plum Borough School District officials said during a school board meeting Tuesday night that two teachers who have been charged in connection with having sexual relationships with students are an embarrassment.

The main consensus from parents who spoke during the meeting: they want to see some kind of policy in place that will protect their children.

In the last couple of weeks, investigators arrested Jason Cooper, a high school science teacher, and Joseph Ruggieri III, a high school English teacher.

According to police, both men had sex with students. However, the cases are unrelated, authorities said.Channel 11 spoke to one parent whose daughters had both teachers.

"There are a lot of kids devastated by this,” said Ed Helbling.

School board member Joe Tomarello proposed a new non-fraternization policy after the second arrest.

While not every parent who spoke Tuesday night agreed with his policy, many commended his pro-active approach.

"I don't know if Joe's policy is perfect, but we do need something,” said Helbling.

School board members said they changed several child protection policies before the incidents, and they’re also working with police in the two ongoing investigations.

"As a resident, father and educator, we're just ...and allegations,” said Plum Borough School District Superintendent Dr. Timothy Glasspool.

School board members said those changed policies, including a revised child abuse policy, are on the district's website and be viewed by clicking HERE.

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