CENTERBURG — Meeting in special session on Thursday, the Centerburg Board of Education accepted the resignation of Sean Sweeney. Sweeney, a middle school social studies teacher and coach, has been under investigation by the board for alleged misconduct outside of school hours and away from school property.
“Mr. Sweeney’s resignation ends any reason for this board to proceed further,” said board president Roger Clark. “The board will fulfill its legal obligation to file a report on this matter with the Ohio Department of Education and it is ODE that will determine whether there is any basis for pursuing this case. The board and administration will cooperate fully with the Department of Education. Respecting the department’s role and responsibility, and our obligation not to prejudice its investigation, the board will have no further public comment.”
Sweeney, who was not at the meeting, told the News he feels like he was hit by a freight train.
“I really think the situation got over-blown,” he said in a telephone interview. “I think two kids thought they did a funny joke, and I got hacked. I think people need to take a look at how easy it is to get into Facebook.
“The main reasons for resignation is my family and the community that I love in Centerburg. For my family, this has just been a living nightmare. I can’t even tell you how bad this has been. And for the community of Centerburg, at least they can put this to rest. I feel that I did what was best for both groups.”
After the meeting, Clark confirmed that disciplinary action will be taken against the two students known to be involved with the situation but refused to comment further.