While doing a little Google research on Stephen C. Buitenveld, the teachers aide charged with indecent liberties with one of his students, I came across a quote attributed to him in a 2003 Bainbridge Island Review article about the Bainbridge Island Aquatic Center. That’s the place he’s now accused of inappropriately touching a developmentally disabled female student in a swimming pool and hot tub.
In the six-year-old story, Buitenveld is giving swimming lessons to a student, and mentions how he and his students visit the center frequently.
Here’s the section that mentions Buitenveld:
“We love it,” said Steve Buitenveld, a high school paraeducator at the pool last week to work with [name redacted], a special-needs student. “Last year we swam three days (a week). [Name redacted] and I really like the hot tub. Don’t we, [name redacted]?”
…Buitenveld added, “It’s accessible, (and) you can come anytime you want.”
According to police, the accusations and video tape footage indicating sexual misconduct with a minor under Buitenveld’s care has put his six or more years as a teacher’s aid on Bainbridge in question. Police are investigating other possible incidents involving Buitenveld and his current and former students, and the mentally challenged females who live in his home. Police police are asking anyone with information about possible past inappropriate incidents involving Buitenveld to contact them at (206) 842-5211.
