A former Westchester County music teacher, Michael Rubino, was arrested for allegedly hugging and trying to kiss a student on the lips inside a high school auditorium before his retirement last school year. The incident occurred on June 10 when the student was led behind the curtains of the auditorium at Hastings High School. Rubino hugged and massaged the student’s back, kissed their cheek and neck without consent, and attempted to kiss the student on the lips. The student reported the incident to the district, which then contacted authorities.
Rubino, who had taught at the district for over 20 years, retired from Hastings High at the end of June. The school superintendent confirmed that Rubino’s retirement was based on a notice he had previously submitted. Rubino was placed on administrative leave pending the investigation into the incident. He is facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree sexual abuse, and second-degree harassment.
Rubino pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment in village court. His lawyer declined to comment on the case, and Rubino also denied the charges when reached by phone. Months before the alleged incident, Rubino was described as “beloved” in a high school newspaper story. He had mentioned easing into retirement while handling a lesser role during his last school year. District Attorney Mimi Rocah commended the victim for coming forward and stated that Rubino’s actions exploited the trust placed in him by the school, parents, students, and community.
The district attorney’s special prosecution division is asking for any other possible victims or individuals with information on the case to come forward by calling 914-995-3000. Rubino is expected to appear in court again on September 18. The superintendent reiterated that the welfare and safety of the students are of utmost importance and that they took immediate action to ensure all students were safe when the incident was reported. Rubino’s lawyer and Rubino himself maintained his innocence, while the district attorney’s office is continuing to investigate the situation.
