USSRC: No evidence of inappropriate behavior, counselor transferred to another job
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — The U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) said Friday an internal investigation found no inappropriate behavior by a Space Camp counselor, who was the subject of social media complaints.
“There is no evidence of inappropriate behavior or malfeasance between any Space Camp staff and student campers,” a statement from USSRC says.
But the USSRC also said the employee has been transferred to another job at the center following unspecified policy violations.
“All other policy violations that were the subject of the investigation have been addressed as an internal personnel matter and include transferring the employee in question to another job at the Center,” the Rocket Center said.
USSRC added that staffers were not present at any point in campers’ bathrooms.
As a result of this investigation, USSRC stated they have changed some policies to address possible violations after conversation about this matter.
“We have received differing accounts on whether an employee spoke to campers on subjects that are prohibited, such as disclosing personal details, religious, or political points of view. We have added a section to our camper and parent evaluations to better capture and address any potential violations quickly,” the statement says.
On March 11, several Alabama lawmakers, citing constituent concerns over a parent’s claims of a transgender Space Camp counselor, said they wanted assurances the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is providing a safe environment for children.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) issued a lengthy statement that evening, saying student safety and security is the Center’s “number one priority.” The statement goes on to say that any allegations of misconduct are taken “very seriously” and will be investigated.
The political reaction appeared to have followed a social post by a parent who said they planned to send their daughter to Space Camp, but changed their mind after the parent learned a transgender counselor was a team lead and could potentially be in camp dorm halls with female students.
Just 4 days later, USSRC released another statement regarding threats its staff have received following a recent social media post involving a Space Camp counselor.
At that time, USSRC said their call center has been actively responding to questions and concerns raised by individuals and school groups, especially those that have trips planned to Space Camp.
The Rocket Center said it will continue to regularly review and update policies and procedures to ensure the highest level of safety.
You can read the entire statement here.
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