FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) - Since last Tuesday, we have received at least 20 tips into our whistleblower hotline about a staff member in Barnesville having an inappropriate conversation with a 5th-grade student during recess. At least two emails were sent to Barnesville Public Schools Superintendent Ellerbusch and a follow-up phone call. Those requests went unanswered.

When our reporter arrived at the school district, Ellerbusch was there to greet him. He did not want to appear on camera and chose to record the interview himself. During the interview, Ellerbusch confirmed that an investigation was started on Wednesday and lasted two days. He said they interviewed all parties involved and after the two days of investigating, they made the decision to close the case and not discipline the staff member.

Hours after that conversation with Ellerbusch, a concerned parent sent our reporter a statement, who didn’t want to be identified.

“I am disappointed with the lack of communication from the superintendent and school board.” part of a statement from the concerned parent.

Ellerbusch said that the parents of the students involved were informed of the school’s decision not to discipline the staff member on Monday.

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