PITTSFIELD, Mass. – A lawsuit has been filed against a former teacher at Pittsfield High School and Pittsfield Public Schools alleging the teacher, Robert Barsanti, sexually harassed a student during her time in his class, and the school did not properly respond to the concerns.
What You Need To Know
- A lawsuit was filed against Pittsfield Public Schools and a former teacher
- Former teacher, Robert Barsanti, is accused of sexually harassing a student
- The suit claims the principal told her and her mother they had recieved previous complaints
- The school has denied the allegations; Barsanti has yet to comment
According to the lawsuit, the student was 16 and a junior when in the defendant’s English class.
The suit claims Robert Barsanti made inappropriate comments about the student and her mother, discussed former work at an adult entertainment club and made students research and write about the business.
There are also allegations Barsanti wanted to wear a sexually suggestive message as a Halloween costume, and at one point touched the plaintiff’s face with his hands.
The suit claims the principal at Pittsfield High School told her and her mother they had received previous complaints about Barsanti’s conduct, and alleges a lack of discipline toward the teacher deprived the plaintiff of her right to an equal education.
In a court filing, Pittsfield Public Schools denied the allegations. Barsanti has yet to comment. He has since retired.
Pittsfield Public School Superintendent Joseph Curtis did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.