Watch CBS News

Trinity Parents Criticize Superintendent, School Board

WASHINGTON (KDKA) -- Both the superintendent and the board of education in the Trinity School District came under fire during a school board meeting in Washington County.

Superintendent Dr. Paul Kasunich was arrested last month and charged with simple assault after police said he pushed his girlfriend's head through a wall and choked her at their Pine Township home.

Kasunich returned to work Wednesday after being temporarily given a paid leave of absence by the school board last month.

KDKA's Ralph Iannotti reports:

Thursday night was the first public meeting of the board since Kasunich's arrest. He sat quietly, listening to criticism of the board for their decision to bring him back to work while the criminal charges remain unresolved.

"I moved [to this district] thinking the board would uphold a tradition, and a set of values, but it does not seem to be so," Robert DeFillilppo, a parent, said.

Several dozen purple ribbons were passed out to people attending the meeting, indicating the public's awareness of the seriousness of the charges against Kasunich.

"You want to be noted on how well you are doing in academics and athletics – certainly not the behavior of your superintendent and other employees," Jack Keisling, outgoing school board vice president, said.

Kasunich and his girlfriend have filed separate protection from abuse orders against each other. He claims she attacked him first.

KDKA's Lynne Hayes-Freeland reports:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.