AMSTERDAM, N.Y. (WNYT) – An Amsterdam High School aide was arrested after police said she had inappropriate communication with a 17-year-old student with disabilities.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said Lisa Catarino, 41, of Palatine Bridge, was charged on June 17 with one count of first-degree endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person.
Catarino is scheduled to appear in Amsterdam Town Court at a later date.
The Greater Amsterdam School District said in a statement that school officials recently became aware of allegations involving inappropriate communication between an employee at Amsterdam High School and a student.
After receiving this information, the district administration began an investigation in cooperation with local law enforcement, notified the student’s parent/guardian and took action.
Catarino has submitted her resignation.
The district said it is limited in the information it can share because it is an active investigation and to protect privacy.
School officials said: “the district is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and will continue to follow all appropriate legal and administrative procedures as the investigation moves forward.
“While we cannot comment further, we remain deeply committed to maintaining a safe, secure learning environment for all students. The emotional well-being of our students remains our top priority. We encourage any student who needs support, has concerns, or simply wants someone to talk to to reach out to our school counseling department or building administrators. We are fully committed to providing the resources they need during this time.”
For Related Stories: Person with Disabilities Link In Bio Crime Amsterdam High School