Teacher accused of rape suspended by school district

Fifth-grade teacher charged with rape

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By Valerie Lough, Staff Writer Updated 9:07 PM Wednesday, June 10, 2009

SPRINGFIELD — A fifth-grade teacher accused of raping a high school student was suspended with pay from his job at Greenon High School, officials announced Wednesday, June 10.

Michael A. Markeson, 28, was arrested earlier this week on charges of rape, sexual battery and gross sexual imposition.

In a statement, Greenon Local School District Superintendant Lori L. Lytle said Markeson has been “suspended from all duties during the pendency of the criminal action and also prohibited from coming on to school property until further notice.”

Markeson was a drama coach at Greenon High School and taught at Indian Valley Middle School for two years.

He is accused of sexually assaulting the student, whose age was not released, last week, according to a sheriff’s report.

His attorney, Jon Paul Rion, said the claims are false.

“We believe the allegation in its entirety is not accurate and we plan on challenging it,” he said.

Markeson pleaded not guilty to the charges Wednesday morning, June 10.

Clark County Municipal Judge Denise Moody set bond at $50,000. Markeson was released Wednesday afternoon.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0360 or vlough@coxohio.com.

Michael A. Markeson

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