TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – An investigation into a teacher at Deerlake Middle School for an alleged sexual relationship with a student found that those claims were “unfounded,” according to a statement from Superintendent Rocky Hanna.
The teacher, who has not been identified by Leon County Schools, was placed on leave during the investigation last month.
In a statement released Wednesday, Hanna said the Leon County Sheriff’s Office “concluded a thorough review of the recent allegations” and “after a full and comprehensive investigation, the claims have been determined to be unfounded.”
The statement emphasized that the schools always take the students seriously and any concerns brought to them will be investigated. “That commitment will never change,” Hanna said.
However, the statement criticized the spread of rumors around the allegation. Social media was abuzz with criticism and concern from parents after the teacher was placed on leave.
“The speed at which rumors surrounding this incident circulated online before the facts of the situation were known is truly disheartening,” Hanna said. “Misinformation spreads quickly, and it can cause unnecessary fear, confusion, and harm to individuals and our school community.”
The statement went on to encourage everyone to allow the investigative process to conclude before drawing conclusions and spreading unverified information.
“Our focus remains on supporting our students, protecting our staff, and ensuring that our schools are safe, respectful places for teaching and learning,” Hanna said. “We appreciate the patience of our Deerlake families and the broader community throughout this process.”
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