Assistant Principal Removed Amid Student Complaints of Inappropriate Behavior

An assistant principal serving as the “Sexual Harassment Prevention” and “Respect for All” liaison at a prestigious Queens high school has been removed following allegations from 13 female students. The students accused Hector L. Diaz of making inappropriate comments and engaging in behavior that made them uncomfortable or scared.

Among the complaints, Diaz reportedly commented that girls looked dressed for “the club,” used racial stereotypes about Asian-Americans, and inappropriately touched students by grabbing an arm or rubbing backs. Investigators documented instances where girls felt threatened or uneasy, including inappropriate comments and unwanted physical contact.

The school, Queens High School for the Sciences at York College, is on a CUNY campus and predominantly Asian, with 81% of its 498 students being of Asian descent. A student who reported the incidents said the principal promised to escalate the matter to the superintendent but never received a response. Instead, the complaints were forwarded to the city’s Department of Education (DOE) investigation units.

Despite nine cases opened against Diaz since 2023, official investigations have not resulted in any formal action. The DOE referred the allegations to its Office of Special Investigations and Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management.

According to records, Diaz, 54, holds certifications for teaching elementary grades and school leadership. Previously, he worked as a dean and interim assistant principal at a Bronx school that was shut down after a stabbing incident in 2017 involving students.

In a statement, the principal of QHSS confirmed Diaz’s removal and emphasized that the school takes such concerns seriously, though details could not be shared publicly. The DOE also stated that Diaz “is no longer part of our community” and that any harassment allegations are thoroughly investigated.

While Diaz declined to comment when reached by phone, the DOE described his conduct as “absolutely unacceptable” and assured that ongoing investigations will lead to appropriate disciplinary actions.