Long Island Parents, Students Rally Behind Autistic School Custodian

Janet Joyce Tuesday, September 18, 2012

There is nothing like a good heart warming story to show the best part of humanity. It doesn't hurt if this is also something that children are involved in. A rally of hundreds of parents and students of the Wantagh, NY school disctrict have come to the aid of an autistic custodian who was recently terminated from his job.

These parents and students are rallying to have 45 year old Mel Turner reinstated so that he can continue working at the school as the custodian. Allegedly Turner was terminated from his custodial job as there were recordings, that were reportedly Turner, threatening to blow up the school.

Supporters of Turner are coming to his side because they say that he did this out of frustration. It seems that bullying at the school is such a problem that it has spread to Turner himself. In an effort to lash back at those who were tormenting and bullying him, Turner screamed. Thus, a recording was made.

One of the students at the school said, "He didn't mean it. He wouldn't hurt a fly." Another student, Dylan Tanella said, “It definitely wasn’t his fault. He has problems and he can’t control that.”

The custodian, Mel Turner, has also come out with his own apology to the events. “I’m very sorry, I promise to never say it again, I didn’t mean it. I think the school should give me a second chance.” Turner told to 1010 WINS' Mona Rivera.

Supporters have taken to social media with their rallying cry. And at a recent school board meeting over 900 people showed up to show thier support and petition the board to reinstate Turner. A final decision will be made on Sept. 21st.

janetj@longislandyellowpages.com

Appears In: Education

 

 

• Business News
• Education
• Entertainment
• Jobs & Careers
• Local Events
• Local Steals, Deals & More
• Press Releases
• Restaurants & Food
• Sports & Recreation

Columnists John M.   Show all Columnists