Second Laurel Highlands teacher accused of attempting to sexually assault student
A second teacher at Laurel Highlands High School is facing charges for inappropriate behavior with a student, coming just days after another teacher's arrest for similar allegations.
JROTC instructor Daniel Cervone faces multiple charges, including sexual contact with a minor and corruption of minors. According to the criminal complaint, Pennsylvania State Police say Cervone had an ongoing sexual relationship with a female student.
Investigators say the alleged abuse began when the girl was 15 years old and continued during her sophomore year, both inside his classroom office and on school property.
The victim bravely came forward, authorities said.
"This occurred back in 2019 to 2020. [The victim] related to us that she engaged in a sexual relationship with an instructor at the Laurel Highlands High School," Trooper Kalee Barnhart said. "Cervone did admit to the sexual intercourse, and at that time, he was taken into custody and arraigned."
As of Tuesday evening, Cervone was in the Fayette County Jail.
Two educators arrested just days apart
Serious questions have emerged about student safety within the district. Cervone's arrest comes just days after civics teacher Martin Gatti was charged with similar offenses at Laurel Highlands High School.
"The case that we filed last week allowed this particular victim to feel comfortable enough to come forward and make the report that she did. We're going to do everything we can to protect our children, and we want the parents to know we're going to prosecute these cases to the fullest extent of the law," Fayette County District Attorney Mike Aubele said.
For many parents, fear and frustration are mounting. They say they're left wondering how this could happen twice in such a short time, and just how safe their children are inside the district.
"What would possess somebody to want to be with a kid? Why? I don't understand it. They're children, and you're supposed to be teaching them and be a role model for them," parent Sandi Anthony said.
The incidents have ignited intense debate among parents, teachers, and the community. While safety at the school is under scrutiny, the district released this statement, saying in part:
"The district takes the safety and welfare of our students as the highest priority. We have and continue to take all steps necessary to fully train and inform our staff on appropriate staff/student boundaries and relationships. However, this does not lighten the sting of episodes currently under investigation."
A special school board meeting has been called for Tuesday evening to address these incidents.
