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Pine Valley: lawsuit claims are ‘without merit’

Pine Valley Central School officials say a woman’s claims are without merit and will be handled through the legal process.

The district has issued a statement in regard to a recent lawsuit by a parent over alleged abuse of her two children that she says contained racist and sexual overtones over a period of seven years. The district had been contacted for comment by The Post-Journal and OBSERVER.

“It is important to note that the claims set forth in the complaint represent the allegations of one party and have not been established as fact. The district disputes allegations and characterizations that are inconsistent with its policies, practices, and longstanding commitment to serving students and families,” the district said. “Because this matter is the subject of pending litigation, the district is limited in its ability to comment and will not address specific allegations through the media. The district will respond through the judicial process, where the facts and legal issues can be fully and appropriately examined. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive educational environment for all students. Reports of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or misconduct are taken seriously and are addressed in accordance with District policies, established procedures, and applicable law. Our focus remains on the educational mission of the district and the well-being and success of our students. We are proud of the dedication and professionalism demonstrated daily by our students, faculty, staff, and administrators. The district will continue to support its school community while vigorously defending itself against allegations it believes are without merit. At this time, the district will have no additional comment on this litigation.”

Robert Connor of McGivney, Kluger, Clark & Intocca PC of Syracuse is representing the school district in the lawsuit. A legal response had not been filed as of June 17.

The woman is seeking $5.5 million in damages. Her lawyers filed a petition to serve a late notice of claim, stating that “cause of action did not accrue until Jan. 9, 2026, when psychiatric evaluations established causation.”

The filing alleges “seven years of documented abuse, discrimination, sexual assault, and retaliation by (the) school district against two minor students, resulting in permanent psychological injury, permanent physical scarring, multiple suicide attempts, and total destruction of educational opportunities.”

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