After Reported Abuse At Holyoke School, Former Superintendent’s New Job On Hold

Fallout continues from a report detailing mistreatment of emotionally disabled students in Holyoke, Massachusetts. A job offer to the former superintendent is now on hold.

The Minneapolis Public Schools website features a picture of Sergio Paez under the banner “Meet Your New Superintendent.” But it’s not a done deal.

A couple days after he was picked for the job, a Massachusetts nonprofit reported a pattern of mistreatment at the Peck School in Holyoke. The report said staff had flung children to the floor, held them down and locked them in closets.

The Minneapolis Board of Education says it takes the allegations seriously and has suspended contract negotiations with Paez. A pair of its board members will travel to Holyoke to get more information.

“The Board takes seriously the allegations in Holyoke and looks forward to thoroughly reviewing and evaluating all pertinent information before finalizing a contract with Dr. Páez.” – Minneapolis Board of Education

In an email, Paez says he’s working with Minneapolis board members to answer their questions. He says he’s confident contract negotiations will resume after they’ve reviewed the facts.

“I am grateful for the Minneapolis School Board voting to hire me as the next Superintendent of the Minneapolis Public Schools. I am proud of my record in Holyoke and other school districts, where I have worked passionately to serve and protect children. I am working with the Board to answer questions about our investigations into any and all claims of inappropriate student restraint, and I’m confident that after they have had an opportunity to review the facts, we will resume contract negotiations shortly.” – Sergio Paez

Paez led Holyoke’s schools for two years until he was replaced this summer following a state takeover of the district.

THE FULL REPORT FROM THE DISABILITY LAW CENTER: