Editor’s note: We received the following statement in the wake of Fenwick High School’s announcement that Quinn would not be returning next school year to teach after an investigation into allegations by former students of inappropriate conduct.
John Quinn served Fenwick High School for 42 years as a teacher of American history and coached Fenwick’s basketball team for 33 of those years. During his career, John regularly won teaching awards and was also elected to both the Catholic League and Illinois Coaches Association Hall of Fame for his achievements as a coach.
Several months ago, two former Fenwick students, who graduated over seven years ago, engaged in a false and malicious social media campaign designed to ruin John’s reputation and end his career at Fenwick.
In response to the social media attack, Fenwick hired an independent investigator with no connections to the school to investigate the former students’ allegations.
John fully cooperated with this investigation, answered every question asked of him, and categorically denied the outrageous claims against him. In contrast, his social media accusers refused to meet with the investigator.
Unfortunately, Fenwick’s public statement regarding John’s departure omitted critical information regarding the independent investigation, including that the independent investigator completely exonerated John from any sexual misconduct whatsoever.
Although Fenwick has refused to provide John with a copy of the investigator’s report, John understands the “clear and unequivocal violations” to which Fenwick refers in its communication to be alleged instances in which John patted students on the back or shoulder.
Throughout John’s tenure at Fenwick, he exemplified the Dominican values of study, reflection, community, and service to others. He always conducted himself in a moral and ethical manner, and his record is one of honor, integrity, and distinction.
John is deeply disappointed that he will not be able to continue his teaching career at Fenwick, but he will always treasure the joys of teaching or coaching thousands of Fenwick students.
And he will remember the countless notes of gratitude from Fenwick graduates and their families, who thanked him for imparting life lessons that have guided them throughout their personal lives and professional careers.
Thomas Quinn
John Quinn’s Attorney
