A recent decision by the Pittston Area School Board has left an employee on leave while still retaining salary and benefits, following an 8-0 vote. However, the identity of this employee remains undisclosed as district leaders have not confirmed the name. This action occurs in the wake of charges against Superintendent Kevin Booth, who faces allegations of simple assault and harassment related to an incident involving his wife. Booth was absent from the meeting, and court documents indicate he is currently undergoing unspecified treatment.
“It’s a personnel matter that we are taking extremely seriously… there are processes in place that we are respecting,” stated Assistant Superintendent John Haas post-meeting. He emphasized the district’s commitment to their educational mission, ensuring students receive quality education daily.
The board refrained from discussing Booth publicly, and there was no public commentary during the meeting held at the high school library. Booth, who has been superintendent since 2016, is under contract until 2029 with a salary slated to rise to $165,346 in January from his current $155,346.
District Notifies State Education Department
The charges against Booth stem from an alleged incident on October 5, where he reportedly returned home intoxicated and assaulted his wife. Jessica Booth has filed for a protection-from-abuse order, citing long-standing emotional abuse and infidelity.
In compliance with state requirements, the school district has notified the Pennsylvania Department of Education about the charges. Assistant Superintendent Haas commented on the situation, stating, “We intend to continue to comply with everything, but we’re also very mindful of people’s presumption of innocence and their rights to go through the court system.”
Haas also noted the district’s awareness of student exposure to the situation through media, ensuring counselors are prepared to address any related concerns with sensitivity.
Sarah Hofius Hall
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WVIA News
Concerns Over Sunshine Act Compliance
There are questions surrounding the transparency of the board’s decision-making process under the Sunshine Act. The agenda did not directly mention Booth, using only an employee number instead of a name. The resolution involved placing “employee #040377” on administrative leave with pay and benefits pending further action.
While Booth’s contract permits suspension without pay for felony charges, neither of the charges he faces qualifies as a felony. WVIA News raised concerns about whether the board’s lack of transparency violated the state’s open meetings law, which mandates public access to decision-making processes.
According to Melissa Melewsky, a media law counsel with the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, the law requires public votes and opportunities for public comment on official actions. Without knowing the subject of the votes, the public cannot provide meaningful input.
District Solicitor Sam Falcone insisted that the district adhered to legal requirements, stating, “I appreciate your concern, but I believe we’ve complied with the Sunshine Law.”
