A Delaware school district suspended an elementary and middle school music teacher amid allegations that she acted inappropriately with a student.
Neither police nor the Appoquinimink School District in Middletown disclosed the nature of the allegations against violinist Nicole Veneroso, outside of state police – who wouldn’t identify Veneroso by name since she isn’t charged – saying that the allegations involved a student.
Veneroso began teaching music at Everett Meredith Middle, Silver Lake Elementary and Townsend Elementary schools this past fall, taught private music lessons online and in person; and she also performed with the Audubon Symphony Orchestra and Newark Symphony Orchestra, according to her music website.
On another music teaching page, Veneroso says “music is my passion, and I love teaching, because I get to share that with my students.”
Appoquinimink superintendent Matt Burrows sent a letter home to parents Wednesday night.
“Due to the seriousness of the allegations, Ms. Veneroso was removed from the classroom and law enforcement officials were immediately notified,” wrote Burrows. “She has been placed on administrative leave and may not enter our premises or have contact with students.”
In the letter, the district said it will cooperate with Delaware State Police during the investigation and hoped to hold an information session for parents as well as staff.
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Burrows also wanted to alert those who took lessons with Veneroso outside the classroom.
“It is our understanding that Ms. Veneroso conducted private lessons in the community,” said Burrows. “Families who had a child taking classes outside of school are encouraged to take the information under advisement.”
An Appoquinimink district spokeswoman didn’t immediately return NBC10’s calls for comment.
Anyone with concerns should contact the Delaware State Police Youth Aid Division at (302) 365-8469, said the letter.
Veneroso has not been charged. NBC10 reached out to her for comment but have not heard back.
