News Summary
San Antonio schools are facing serious allegations of inappropriate relationships between educators and students. Multiple cases have surfaced, involving teachers from various school districts, prompting investigations and community concern. Incidents include teachers being placed on leave and arrests due to inappropriate conduct. Parents and educators are called to focus on maintaining safe learning environments for students.
Concerns Rise in San Antonio Schools Over Teacher-Student Relationships
San Antonio has been shaken recently as multiple educators from various school districts face serious allegations involving inappropriate relationships with students. The safety and well-being of our young learners are of utmost importance, and these developments have raised alarm bells across the community.
SAISD Teacher No Longer Employed After Allegations
In a noteworthy case, a teacher from the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD), Matthew Almaraz, has been accused of having a relationship with a former student. Unfortunately, the district confirmed that Almaraz is no longer working at SAISD as of March 19, 2025. Ensuring the integrity of their educational environment, the district followed established guidelines to promptly report this incident to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). It’s worth noting that Almaraz’s profile has vanished from the district’s website, leaving a cloud of uncertainty around the details of this troubling situation.
Harlandale District Faces Similar Allegations
Meanwhile, another educator from the Harlandale Independent School District has been placed on paid leave while allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student are being investigated. This matter came to light on March 4, 2025, concerning a former student at McCollum High School. It’s particularly distressing to learn that the student was a minor at the time of the alleged sexual abuse, leading to an ongoing investigation by the TEA. Alongside this, the boys’ basketball coach at the same school, Marcus Alvarado, is under scrutiny as well, which raises questions regarding potential connections between the two incidents.
Former Churchill Teacher Arrested
A former teacher from Churchill High School, identified as John Ghrist, recently encountered legal troubles when he was arrested due to allegations of inappropriate communication with a 15-year-old student. Ghrist, who is 36 years old, faces a third-degree felony charge as reports indicate that this relationship dates back to November 2023. The North East Independent School District was alerted to possible inappropriate communication as early as June 2023 and acted responsibly by notifying authorities and the State Board of Education.
Bands Teacher Arrested for Improper Conduct
Another case shaking the community is that of Jesse Ybarra Orta, a former band teacher who was arrested for his inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old student. The nature of this relationship reportedly included inappropriate touching in his office. Alarmingly, the victim came forward to end the relationship, disclosing text messages that suggest a prolonged involvement. Orta’s concerns deepen as he is now also linked to an invasive visual recording incident involving a different victim, with potential charges still pending.
Stockdale Teacher Charged with Indecency
In a separate and equally concerning case, a teacher from Stockdale Independent School District, Peter Leach, has also been arrested due to allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student. Upon being notified of the allegations, Leach resigned, demonstrating the serious nature of the claims against him. He now faces charges for both Improper Relationship between Educator and Student and Indecency with a Child. After an immediate investigation by the district, Leach was arrested without incident and is currently being held at the Wilson County Jail, with bond details yet to be released.
Community Response and Awareness
Since these incidents have surfaced, parents, students, and educators alike are urged to remain vigilant, emphasizing the importance of creating safe learning environments. These alarming allegations make it clear that trust is a key factor in education, and the communities in San Antonio are rallying together to demand accountability and action. It’s crucial for everyone involved in shaping our schools to collaborate to ensure that our children are protected and nurtured in nurturing, safe spaces. The focus remains on the well-being of our students and maintaining a supportive educational atmosphere.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT: McCollum HS Teacher Accused
- News 4 San Antonio: Former Churchill Teacher Arrested
- KENS 5: San Antonio Band Teacher Arrested
- Express News: Former Band Teacher Arrest
- Dallas Express: San Antonio Teacher Busted
- Wikipedia: Sexual Abuse of Students
- Google Search: Teacher-Student Relationships
- Google Scholar: Teacher Misconduct
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Teacher-Student Relationship
- Google News: Teacher Arrested Student
