SOUTH

MCKEESPORT

Two teachers in the McKeesport Area School District routinely had sex in a classroom and a men's bathroom during school hours while two other teachers served as lookouts, according to an investigation recently completed by administrators.

Patrick Collins, who has taught for 31 years in the district, and Angela DiBattista, a 12-year veteran, had sex several times at Cornell Intermediate School from 1999 to 2001, said school district Solicitor Jack Cambest.

"It all came to light in testimony for a prior unrelated disciplinary hearing," Mr. Cambest said yesterday.

Both teachers have been suspended since early this year while the investigation was under way. The superintendent must now decide what actions to take.

Two other teachers at the school, Michael Cherepko, 28, and Nicole Lundberg, 30, played a role in helping Mr. Collins, 54, and Ms. DiBattista, 50, avoid getting caught. They stood outside the classroom to alert the couple of anyone who might discover them.

Mr. Cambest said he could not comment on what disciplinary action, if any, Mr. Cherepko and Ms. Lundberg received.

Mr. Cambest said it was unlikely either Mr. Collins or Ms. DiBattista will continue teaching in McKeesport.