Winona Area Public SchoolsHello families,
Yesterday, the Winona Police Department arrested Winona Senior High School teacher Eric Birth on potential charges of third degree criminal sexual conduct.
Winona Area Public Schools administration was made aware of a police investigation into Birth on Wednesday, Jan. 3. At that time, action was immediately taken to put the employee on leave and fully cooperate with the police investigation. A report was made with the Minnesota Department of Education.
According to the police department, a person reported that while enrolled as a student in a local high school in 2022, they were involved in a sexual relationship with an individual identified as Birth. During the course of the police investigation, two additional students reported that while attending high school in 2016 and 2017, they were also involved in a sexual relationship with Birth.
Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot share additional details at this time.
We understand that this news may be shocking and concerning to our school community. Please know that all school district employees are subject to a thorough background check before being hired, and are also required to complete training to reinforce policy, procedure, and our legal requirements as mandatory reporters.
We strive to provide a supportive learning environment where our students, staff and community members feel safe and empowered to report any and all concerns. We have a Confidential Reporting Form on our website to report such concerns. Reports can also be made directly to WAPS staff members through less formal forms of communication, including letters, emails, phone calls, voicemails, or in-person conversations.
All reports are classified as private data and will not be disclosed, as permitted by law. If complaints are made to local law enforcement agencies, as was this case in this matter, we will fully cooperate with any investigation that takes place.
We urge anyone who has any information or concerns that might be relevant to this case to contact the Winona Police Department.
The safety of our students is a top priority. We are grateful for the efforts of the Winona Police Department and the strong partnership we have with local law enforcement.
Thank you for your attention to this update.
Thank you.
Brad Berzinski
Superintendent
Winona Area Public Schools