Frederick Co. High School staff member under investigation for alleged inappropriate relationship with student

STEPHENS CITY, Va. — A staff member at Sherando High School in Frederick County, Virginia has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into claims that the staff member had an inappropriate relationship with a student.

This is the second incident in a week within the county that a school staff member has been placed on leave following accusations of misconduct with a student. 

Principal John Nelson sent a letter home to families on Wednesday after he was made aware that a staff member and a student were allegedly having inappropriate sexual contact outside of school.

Due to certain laws regarding student and staff privacy, the identity of the individuals who may have been involved will not be shared by the school district.

The staff member involved has been placed on administrative leave and may be disciplined or terminated.

Nelson says the matter is being addressed by law enforcement, and in accordance with Frederick County Public Schools policy.

Both police and school division staff are following the established procedures to investigate the matter further and take appropriate action in accordance with Virginia law.

Nelson ended his letter sent home to families by saying, "I encourage anyone, including students, who have a concern about a relationship or activities between a staff member and student to bring their concern immediately to me or another staff member at school. We want to ensure the safety and security of all students and continue to provide a learning environment that is conducive to helping all students succeed."

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