Harlem superintendent issues statement on sex charge against teacher

Harlem Public Schools Superintendent Arlene Bigby issued a statement this morning on the district’s Facebook page asking for information anyone has about allegations one of the Harlem High School teachers had sex with a student in the school.

Jack. G Young was arrested Friday on charges of sexual abuse of children, indecent exposure and sexual intercourse without consent.

Blaine County Clerk of Court’s Office reported no charges had been filed against Young in state District Court as of the time this article was written this morning.

Blaine County Sheriff John Colby said in a release that Young was arrested and was being held in the Valley County Detention Center after the sheriff’s office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Montana Department of Criminal Investigation conducted an investigation after the sheriff’s office received a report April 13 of sexual assault on a minor. The minor said a sexual relationship with Young had started and continued in the school.

Bigby’s post said she was writing it to share information and to “ask for assistance from the community during a difficult time.

“We want to support our students, families and staff as they deal with the feelings created when trust is broken,” she added.

Bigby said she understands the situation has been traumatic for many people, and the district is bringing in additional training and support from programs outside the school for both students and staff.

She said the district is doing everything it can to address concerns people have brought forward. The district initiated its Title IX complaint process and has followed its regulations which require an investigation and then a determination which may be followed by specific action against people who have violated district policy or the law.

“Kaleva Law Office is working with district officials to complete the process as quickly as possible,” she said.

Bigly said she is asking anyone with any information about something they need the district to address to put it in writing so the district can follow up.

“Also, understand that we cannot share information about the complaint or investigation due to confidentiality, so please be patient,” she said. “We cannot investigates statements made on social media or in conversation, just written statements provided and supported by evidence.

“Please be kind and supportive to everyone, as you never know what someone else is dealing with,” Bigby said.