Click on "Read More" to view an important letter to Great Lakes Secondary School families.

November 30, 2017

Dear Great Lakes Secondary School Students and Families:

I am writing to inform you today that Sarnia Police Service charged Barb Organ, a teacher at our school, with sexual exploitation and sexual assault on a female student. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2011 and 2013. Ms. Organ has not been in the school since allegations were made and will not return as long as a police investigation continues or the matter is before the courts. Great Lakes Secondary School staff and the Lambton Kent District School Board have fully co-operated with the police during their investigation, and will continue to do so. The LKDSB has also contacted the Ontario College of Teachers.

Sarnia Police have issued a media release which is copied below. I wanted to inform you of this, as the LKDSB values open and transparent dialogue with its students, families and the community.

The LKDSB takes all allegations seriously and will continue to cooperate with police on this matter. I feel it is important to note that LKDSB staff will ensure the necessary supports to students are provided to ensure their successful completion of the 2017-2018 school year and to mitigate the impact on student success.

Please be assured that the LKDSB is committed to offering a safe and caring learning environment for all students. If you have any questions, please contact me at 519-336-6131.

Sincerely,

Paul Wiersma
Principal
Great Lakes Secondary School

Sarnia Police Media Release

Teacher Charged With Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Assault

Barbara Organ, a teacher with the Lambton Kent District School Board, has been arrested and charged with sexual exploitation and sexual assault on a female student. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2011 and 2013.

Organ, who was a teacher at St. Clair Secondary School at that time, and the victim, began a relationship, while Organ was teaching the victim. The victim was 16 years old when the relationship began. The relationship between Organ and the victim continued after the victim left high school.

Organ was arrested at the Sarnia Police Headquarters without incident on November 29, 2017. She was released from custody on bail with a first appearance in court in December.  

Letter from Director Jim Costello - Nov30_Teacher_Charged_Directors_Letter.pdf

Sarnia Police Media Release - Teacher Charged - November 30 2017.pdf