Former student sues Bay Shore schools, claims she was sexually abused by art teacher
According to the lawsuit, her mother complained to officials about inappropriate conduct at the hands of John Kennedy.
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A former Bay Shore high school student is suing the district alleging it failed to protect her from an art teacher she claims sexually abused her.
According to the lawsuit, her mother complained to officials about inappropriate conduct at the hands of John Kennedy.
The suit says he sexually abused her in his classroom when she was 17 from June to October of last year.
Suffolk police sat their investigation determined the allegations were not criminal. In Oct. 2025, the district said a teacher facing 'allegations' was put on leave. News 12 reached out to police to confirm the incidents are connected.
The student is not suing Kennedy.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven J. Maloney released a statement saying:
The District is aware of the allegations raised in this lawsuit, and will not discuss the specific claims in pending litigation or personnel matters.
When the matter was first brought to our attention in October 2025, the District took immediate action, placing the staff member on administrative leave and barring the individual from District property. The Suffolk County Police Department was immediately notified and the District fully cooperated throughout their investigation. As this is a legal and personnel matter, we cannot provide further information at this time.
The Bay Shore School District will continue to act quickly and responsibly in all matters regarding the well-being of our school community.
