A principal in the Knoch School District has been charged after he allegedly failed to report an incident of sexual abuse.
50-year-old Gregory Mandalas of Butler is the principal of the Knoch Primary School. He is facing misdemeanor charges stemming from an incident that happened last August.
According to state police, Mandalas’ son, 20-year-old Matthew Mandalas, allegedly sexually abused a five-year-old girl. Her parents then contacted Gregory Mandalas—who did not report the crime.
Trooper Bertha Cazy says because Mandalas is a school principal—he is a mandated reporter and must contact law enforcement.
“Mandated reporters include a variety of professions like law enforcement, school employees, health services, and the list goes on and on,” Cazy said. “You are required to report it in a timely manner and Mr. Mandalas failed to do that.”
Mandalas is on indefinite paid leave through the end of the year. According to Knoch solicitor Tom Breth, the allegations do not involve a student of the Knoch School District.
“The allegations relate to a minor outside of the Knoch School District setting,” Breth said. “But, as additional information becomes available, if the district can make that information public Dr. Foley as the superintendent will provide that information or I will in my role as solicitor.”
Knoch will cooperate with any law enforcement agency requesting information. Mendalas is on an indefinite paid administrative leave through the end of this school year.
A former administrator is expected to take over the responsibilities of that position this school year.
