Austintown teacher fired; 51 instances of professional misconduct cited

AUSTINTOWN

Austintown Board of Education on Friday unanimously took the final step in firing a teacher accused of an inappropriate relationship with five female students at Fitch High School.

John Dietz, a social studies teacher, was “terminated for good and just cause” effective Friday, according to the resolution passed in a 5-0 vote. Dietz has told the school board that he will challenge the decision through arbitration.

Capt. Bryan Kloss of Austintown police has said the criminal investigation was closed with no charges. Police had searched his school computer during their investigation.

The resolution states verbal or nonverbal sexual harassment “occurring inside or outside of District buildings, on other District-owned property or at school-sponsored social functions/activities, is illegal and unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

The grounds for termination are also outlined in the resolution, citing 51 instances of professional misconduct.