Parents in Queens are demanding answers after William Bassell, the high school principal of the Academy of American Studies, faces multiple disturbing charges. According to ABC7NY, Bassell, aged 66, was arrested last week on charges of forcible touching and five counts of third-degree sexual abuse. Allegedly, he groped two adult women, who are employees at the school, without their consent. In a meeting yesterday, parents voiced their frustrations, with one parent expressing, "I want to know what the plan is for addressing this with the children."
Dr. Hoa Tu, New York City Schools Superintendent for Queens North, informed parents that Bassell is no longer managing the school and is not involved in its daily operations. Due to an ongoing investigation, officials were limited in the details they could share. Parents have expressed concerns about the need to quickly identify a replacement for the upcoming school year. Some also questioned whether the allegations should have led to an earlier investigation into Bassell’s conduct, particularly regarding any potential impact on student safety.
Bassell's attorney, responding to the arrest, told The Post, "Principal Bassell has dedicated his 45 year career in education, 31 years of which as a principal, to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive educational environment." Lawyer Kendra Monte added, "He maintains his innocence and is fully cooperating with any and all investigations to ensure the truth is brought to light." Despite the arrest, the article mentioned his previous accolades, including a National Arts Awards honor and praise from prominent figures. The attorney strongly denied the claims, describing them as "baseless and vindictive allegations manufactured by two disgruntled employees."
Meanwhile, the Department of Education has reassigned Bassell pending the outcome of the case, and an emergency meeting to discuss the arrest was held by city DOE brass on Monday. In a statement obtained by The Post, a DOE spokesperson said, "We do not tolerate inappropriate behavior of any kind and we take these allegations very seriously." As Bassell prepares to address the charges, the community anticipates further information and decisions from school officials. Some parents, while interested in the situation, declined to speak on camera, indicating the ongoing sensitivity of the case.
