South Country School District expected to appoint Dennis O’Hara as superintendent
Some parents and community members have raised concerns over past allegations that were later dismissed.
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The South Country School District is expected to appoint Dennis O’Hara as its new superintendent during a special board meeting Wednesday night.
O’Hara is the superintendent of Islip Union Free School District.
However, some parents and community members have expressed concern about previous sexual harassment allegations that were later dismissed.
As News 12 previously reported, while working a summer job as a lifeguard, O’Hara was accused of taking photos of female lifeguards. O’Hara said the photos were taken to raise awareness about the lack of official uniforms.
Following an investigation, the allegations were cleared, and O’Hara resumed his position as superintendent.
Despite that outcome, some community members remain concerned about his appointment.
"He seems to have experience with schools, and that's great. But in view of the fact that he's been involved with, at least accused of taking pictures of people that were inappropriate for a person in his position, you have to wonder how much faith and confidence that the public can have in that person," says Russell Myers, of North Bellport.
If appointed, O’Hara is expected to begin his term with South Country Schools in December. His contract would run through June 2030.
The special meeting is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. at the district offices in East Patchogue.
