Kevin Vesey

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Dec 18, 2024, 10:30 PM

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Updated

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The Bay Shore School Board voted unanimously Wednesday evening to approve a $35 million settlement for 12 former students who allege they were sexually abused by retired elementary school teacher Thomas Bernagozzi. The settlements are part of claims made under New York's Child Victims Act, which allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse to seek justice even if the abuse occurred many years ago.

Bernagozzi faces accusations from 45 former students. He has been criminally charged for abusing two students. The settlement of the 12 claims will avoid lengthy trials, though some residents are concerned about the financial implications for the school district and its taxpayers.

Luronne Charles, a Bay Shore parent, voiced her concerns about the potential rise in taxes to cover the settlement costs.

"It's scary because we might have to pay for it," Charles said, reflecting the anxiety many residents feel over the financial impact.

To date, the district has resolved 17 uninsured claims and three claims that were covered by insurance.

While the settlement resolves individual cases, it raises larger questions about the long-term financial health of the district.

School Board President Louis Bettinelli addressed those concerns, emphasizing the district’s commitment to fairness, compassion, and fiscal responsibility.

He assured the community that all decisions regarding claims under the Child Victims Act would be made with consideration of both the victims and the district’s financial future.

“We want to ensure that our district continues to thrive,” Bettinelli said.

Looking ahead, the Bay Shore School Board is expected to vote in the coming months on whether to approve a bond to cover the $35 million settlement.

Bettinelli indicated that the board is likely to approve the bond, though the vote will still need to be finalized in the new year.