University School of Nashville parts ways with director
The director was let go based on the school’s handling of an investigation into a former teacher.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV)—The University School of Nashville’s Board of Trustees has dismissed its Director, Amani Reed.
The school’s administration said Reed was let go following an independent report into the school’s handling of the investigation into a former teacher, Dean Masullo.
Masullo was accused of grooming by an alumna of the school in May 2024.
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According to the school, Masullo was terminated in July. However, the victim said she and her family never received updates about the investigation.
Reed’s communication during the ordeal has been considered poor.
“The independent report, prepared by the law firm Barnes & Thornburg LLP, was commissioned by USN’s Board to impartially uncover all facts about this matter, including how it was handled by the school’s administration and Board,” USN said.
The USN has launched an immediate search for an Interim Head of School. For now, USN’s board has named Head of High School Chai Reddy, as the acting Head of School.
USN has also developed a “care plan” to provide support for all students, alumni, parents, and school employees impacted by the investigation into Masullo over the past several months.
“This has been a painful time for the USN community, one from which we are determined to learn and grow stronger,” said Board of Trustees President Eric Kopstain. “It is important to emphasize that Dean Masullo’s behavior toward a USN alumna, which the new report defines as “consistent with grooming behavior” in contrast with the previous investigation, was abhorrent and offensive. Many correct and immediate steps were taken by USN’s administration and Board in terminating Masullo. However, USN did not live up to its values or standards in its care for our alumna and our broader community. Director Reed’s actions and inactions throughout the process led the Board to the decision that he is unable to lead USN in the future.”
USN is also suing Masullo in a new lawsuit. It said he is not cooperating with their new investigation USN opened this fall, but Masullo is not participating due to an “alleged pending criminal investigation”.
“USN appreciates the input, patience, and integrity of our community,” said Kopstain. “We are deeply grateful for our alumna who had the courage to report Dean Masullo’s inexcusable behavior to our school and then stand up publicly to pursue justice when USN failed her in many ways. USN will go through an extensive process to emerge stronger and is grateful for our entire community’s support and dedication to upholding our school’s values.”
Read the full letter from the Board of Trustees to the USN community, here.
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