Vandalia School District statement on Dierkes arrest

On Dec. 3, 2019, a former student reported allegations of sexual misconduct against James T. Dierkes, a former Okaw Vocational Center and Vandalia Community Unit School District #203 employee. Dierkes was employed by the school district as a teacher from 2012-18.
As a mandated reporter, Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Garrison notified the Vandalia Police Department immediately upon being notified of the allegations.
Regional Superintendent Julie Wollerman was also notified as his teaching license is active and all allegations of sexual misconduct by public school district employees must be reported immediately to the Illinois State Board of Education.
On Dec. 6, the Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigations arrested Dierkes. Fayette County State’s Attorney Joshua Morrison formally charged Dierkes on one count of aggravated criminal Sexual abuse and one count of criminal sexual assault.
We are deeply disturbed by these allegations. The misconduct had never been reported to the District or its administration.
We have fully cooperated with the investigation and authorities handling this matter and will continue to do so.
We support the braveness of the victims who came forward. The entire Vandalia Schools family is saddened and discouraged by these allegations, and will continue to advocate for the success and safety of our students every day.
If anyone has any further information that they feel should be reported, they can make a report to Garrison or the Vandalia Police Department at 283-0556.
For counseling services, contact the Community Resource Center at 283-4229 or SAFE at 283-1414.