Under a referendum proposal, the Kaukauna Area School District would like to close River View Middle School and build a new building for middle school students. PC: Fox 11 Online
KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Kaukauna Area School Board decided to take no action on the employment of principal Lucas Cromell, who was named in a lawsuit against the Oconto Falls School District, which alleges years of sexual misconduct.
The meeting took place in closed session.
“The board, in consultation with legal counsel, will continue to review any relevant information that may become available,” said school board president Christine Bouressa. “The current evidence available does not warrant any action to be taken at this point.”
According to the lawsuit’s civil complaint, Cromell faces allegations from three students and at least four staff members; however, he does not currently face criminal charges in Oconto Falls. The allegations include sending inappropriate messages and misconduct in a classroom while serving as a substitute teacher.
The complaint says at least four staff members allege he sexually harassed them during his time at the district. Cromell became River View Middle School principal prior to the 2021-22 school year and has worked in the Kaukauna Area School District for 10 years. He worked in the Oconto Falls School District previously.
Several Kaukauna parents requested he be placed on administrative leave for the district to investigate.
“Myself and many of the parents and siblings of Kaukauna School District children are asking for Mr. Lucas Cromell to be put on administrative leave and for a private investigation to take place so that the victims’ testimonies are able to be sorted out,” said Harleigh Brunette, a sibling of a student in the district.
Added parent Brittany Goffard: “I am not asking the board to determine whether these allegations are true. I am asking to make sure they are properly investigated. Administrative leave is not a finding of guilt.”
Separate petitions call for Cromell to be placed on administrative leave and a request for a full investigation by the Kaukauna Area School District. The lawsuit was filed in March, but drew attention last week when Slowinski emailed parents, reaffirming the district’s commitment to Cromell and maintaining his innocence.
“The allegations… were investigated by the Oconto Falls School District and found to be unsubstantiated,” said Slowinski in the email to parents. “Cromell participated in and completed the District’s hiring and screening process, which included reference and background checks.”
In a statement, Cromell denied the allegations.
“I am aware of the civil suit and the allegations pertaining to my time in the district,” said Cromell. “I categorically deny any such inappropriate conduct. I am not a defendant in the lawsuit, and I will fully cooperate as needed. My focus has always been, and will continue to be, on the education, safety, and well-being of the students and colleagues I serve.”
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