Laurel Highlands: Superintendent Resigns Amid Staffing Turmoil
Jesse Wallace steps down immediately after three staff members were dismissed for misconduct this year.
By Katherine Brooks ·
Three employees in the Laurel Highlands School District were fired for inappropriate behavior toward students in 2026. The departures followed a period of intense scrutiny for the Uniontown, Pennsylvania, school system. District leaders moved to stabilize operations by replacing the superintendent who had overseen the district during these incidents.
Jesse Wallace announced his retirement on Thursday. The decision is effective immediately. The district confirmed the news through a social media post. The Board of School Directors, faculty, and staff expressed their appreciation to Wallace for his service. They wished him well in his retirement.
The staffing changes began in March. Martin Gatti, a 50-year-old high school teacher and former Uniontown City Council member, faced charges. Prosecutors accused him of attempted institutional sexual assault, unlawful conduct with a minor, and corruption of minors. One week later, police arrested Daniel Cervone, a 50-year-old JROTC instructor. He faced charges of institutional sexual assault, corruption of minors, and unlawful contact with a minor. A third employee was placed on leave in April and dismissed in August for similar conduct. That individual has not been criminally charged or publicly identified.
The school board voted in August to rescind a three-year contract extension granted to Wallace in 2025. The original agreement was set to run from July 2027 through June 2030. By voiding the extension, the board ensured Wallace's contract would expire in the summer of 2027. His immediate retirement accelerates that timeline.
Administrative leadership will change hands during the transition. The board initiated a search for an interim superintendent. Randy Miller and Dr. Jessica Scott will share administrative responsibilities. Their goal is to maintain daily operations and support across all schools in the district.
The district continues to operate under the oversight of the board and the new shared administrative team. Wallace leaves his post with his contract ending next summer. The search for a permanent replacement or interim leader remains active.
Source: Hoover Patch
