Community College defends hiring Sex Offender to tutor minors
In 2010, our local community college hired Curtis Buell, a sex offender fresh out of prison, and he still works there to this day. He has even climbed the ladder to become Director of the GED program and tutoring. He has had access to minors throughout his tenure at SWOCC, sometimes working with them privately 1-on-1. The girls he was convicted of molesting in Eugene were his 17 year old students.
Naturally I was outraged when I found out, so I spoke up the college board meeting last month, and asked them to re-consider their policy on hiring sex offenders and providing them access to minors. The following is their (non) response:
Mr. Castleman,
Please be advised that your request for a review of the college’s hiring policies and to create a new policy was considered by the Board of Education. After careful consideration, the Board has determined that the current Board Policies (sections 3000 and 7000) and Administrative Procedures (chapter 3 and 7) follow the law and align with the established guidelines and institutional needs.
Our college policies and procedures undergo regular legal review to ensure compliance, and we remain committed to continuous evaluation and improvement as needed.
Sincerely,
Marcia Jensen, Board Chair
They also issued a press release in response to my remarks at their board meeting:
Statement from Southwestern Oregon Community College:
“We believe in the power of second chances and the potential for personal growth and rehabilitation. We believe that providing opportunities for those who have demonstrated a commitment to turning their lives around aligns with our mission of fulfilling the educational and cultural needs of our diverse communities by providing equitable access to exceptional teaching and learning in a collaborative, engaging, sustainable environment, which supports innovation, lifelong enrichment, and contribution to global society. We appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to create a welcoming and supportive environment at Southwestern Oregon Community College.“
