Bivona program lauded after arrest of principal
Gary Craig – Rochester Democrat and Chronicle USA TODAY NETWORK – in the D&C on 4/22/21 on page A1
This much we know: The Bivona Child Advocacy Center recently took its curriculum into Northwood Elementary School, telling children about sexual abuse.
Not long thereafter, law enforcement was alerted that the school’s principal, Kirk Ashton, may have molested a boy. Within days, that investigation grew from allegations of one abused student to claims – and criminal charges – that he had molested nine on school grounds.
The exact turn of events has not been spelled out, but authorities have made clear that, had it not been for the work of Bivona and its counselors and instructors, the arrest of Ashton may not have happened.
“I feel strongly that we would not be here if it were not for the (Bivona) educational program,” Assistant District Attorney Sara VanStrydonck said at a news conference after Ashton’s arrest.