State to examine case of a student who copied racy photos of teacher

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By Matt Sanctis, Staff Writer Updated 11:11 AM Monday, June 29, 2009

ST. PARIS — Graham School District officials are investigating a case involving a high school science teacher who had racy photos of herself on her cell phone that fell into the hands of a student.

According to a report by the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office, the student took teacher Chantelle Rose’s phone from her classroom and forwarded photos of the teacher to himself. The photos were of her wearing lingerie. Copies of those photos were sent to other students, according to reports.

Jim Zerkle, superintendent for the district, said Thursday, June 25, he had spoken with Rose and said no illegal activity seems to have taken place, although he said it appears to have been bad judgment on the teacher’s part.

“It’s poor judgment, but I don’t know that it’s unethical,” he said.

Zerkle said while the teacher was not disciplined, the case will be turned over to the Department of Education’s Office of Professional Conduct.

Sgt. Aaron Brown of the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office said the student is being investigated for unauthorized use of property, a misdemeanor.

The case, he said, will be turned over to the county’s juvenile prosecutor.

Rose’s personnel file shows she was hired in 1999, and there are no reports of other similar issues. Evaluations showed excellent and effective marks in all categories.

Rose was not available for comment Thursday afternoon.

While the teacher does not appear to have done anything illegal by having the photos on her phone, Zerkle said it was an embarrassing situation for everyone involved.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0355 or msanctis@coxohio.com.

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