Wash High volunteer charged
A Washington School District volunteer has been charged for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a student.
Leah C. Pagano, 26, of 945 Donnan Ave., was charged by Washington police Monday with statutory sexual assault, institutional sexual assault and indecent assault of a person less than 16 years old after the girl disclosed an alleged sexual relationship with Pagano that lasted from March 2015 to January.
“Once the district was aware, we followed procedures,” said Superintendent Roberta DiLorenzo. “I immediately called (Pagano) and said during the investigation, she couldn’t be on any school grounds or fulfill any volunteer duties.”
DiLorenzo said Pagano was not on school grounds Monday when the student told a school staff member about the relationship.
The girl alleged she and Pagano engaged in multiple sex acts, starting when she was 15. The acts allegedly occurred at a city residence.
According to the complaint, Pagano was approved in August as a cheerleading volunteer.
She was also approved to volunteer with the Prexie Musical Production Team.
DiLorenzo said Pagano was approved after completing all necessary requirements, including criminal background checks. DiLorenzo wasn’t sure how many practices or events Pagano participated in with the cheering team but said spring musical rehearsals, for which Pagano volunteered, started recently.
“Our volunteers are not with the students by themselves. They are assisting our paid personnel,” DiLorenzo said.
Charges will be sent by summons from the office of District Judge Robert Redlinger.