GALION―A now former athletic trainer has been charged with possession of sexually exploited images of children. Superintendent Jennifer Allerding sent the following letter to parents:
March 1, 2023
Dear Galion City School District Parents,
I am sharing some serious and concerning news we received today regarding an athletic trainer that had been working in our schools. We learned this morning that now-former Athletic Trainer, Jon Vitello, was arrested for possession of images considered exploitive of children. The Galion City School District is cooperating with Marion Police Department in an ongoing investigation that is taking place at this time. It goes without saying that we are disturbed and disgusted by the allegations.
Mr. Vitello was a contracted employee through a local healthcare provider and worked in the school district for five years. He will no longer be working for the school district in any capacity or have access to Galion buildings or events.
While the investigation is ongoing, the Marion Police Department has provided us with limited information. Moreover, the police department has shared that at this time, there is no evidence that Mr. Vitello was in possession of images of any Galion student that are considered exploitive of children, nor is there evidence of inappropriate contact with Galion students. He did, however, save photographs from social media sites, and the Marion Police Department has indicated that at least one photo is from a Galion athletic event posted on Galion Tigers Athletics.
Safety is always our primary concern, and keeping you informed is important to us.
We will continue to work closely with law enforcement throughout the investigation. If you have any information you believe may be relevant to the investigation. Please reach out to the Marion Police Department immediately at (740) 387-2222.
As a reminder. Students and families are encouraged to anonymously report any concerning behavior through the reporting tool on our website, Galion City Schools Safe Reporting, or by calling or texting the Safer Ohio School Tip Line at (844) SAFEROH. Additionally, building principals, counselors, and the district social worker are always available to answer questions, develop action plans or connect you to the resources needed for your student.
As always, please feel free to contact me directly at (419) 468-3432, ext. 11001, with questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Allerding
Superintendent