Bedford High School Dean On Leave Amid Controversy

BEDFORD, NH — A Bedford High School official was recently placed on leave amid a "misconduct" investigation after controversy over the dean's support of a former guidance counselor convicted of molesting a student. Zanna Blaney is a dean at the school. In July, she testified in support of Kristie Torbick during Torbick's sentencing hearing for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student while working as a guidance counselor at Exeter High School last year. Torbick previously worked as a guidance counselor at Bedford High School.

Torbick was sentenced to up to 5 years in prison. Some Bedford students and parents criticized Blaney for speaking at the sentencing hearing and laid blame on school officials.

The controversy has rocked the school district. In August, Superintendent Chip McGee resigned after outcry over Blaney's testimony.

The Bedford School Board released this statement Thursday:

"The Superintendent is meeting with employees and finalizing decision-making and taking steps to bring closure to this matter. It is important to note that any action taken or not taken by the Bedford School District regarding personnel is protected information and not intended for the public. While the school district strives to be transparent in our operations, the privacy rights of employees will continue to be protected throughout this process."

Related:

• Bedford Schools Superintendent Resigns
• Bedford Schools Launch 'Misconduct' Probe

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