An assistant principal who was previously named “Teacher of the Year” in Mississippi was arrested after she allegedly had sex with a student.
Olivia Marie Smith was charged with sexual battery and enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes, according to Action News 5.
Smith previously worked as a teacher at Ocean Springs Middle School and she won the “Teacher of the Year” honor in 2022. She later started working as an assistant principal at Oak Park Elementary, where she was seemingly employed at the time of her arrest.
Investigators with the Ocean Springs Police Department first learned of the allegations against Smith when Ocean Springs School District officials reported the matter on June 20.
The district said it was “deeply saddened” to hear about the charges being filed against Smith, but added that they were fully cooperating with the investigation.
“After being tipped off about potential inappropriate behavior taking place involving an employee, OSSD immediately notified OSPD and Mississippi Child Protective Services,” the district shared in a statement, according to the outlet. “OSSD has been working closely with law enforcement throughout the investigation.”
Smith attended her probable cause hearing at Jackson County Circuit Court on Thursday, July 16, and was arrested and charged following the hearing.
Circuit Court Judge Calvin Taylor then set Smith’s bond at $50,000 for each charge she’s facing.
Following her arrest, school officials said they understood the seriousness of the situation and insisted to members of the community that they were handling the situation properly.
“We want to reassure parents, students, and staff that we are addressing this matter with seriousness and diligence,” officials continued in the statement, per the outlet. “OSSD will continue to work with investigators and assist them in any way possible. The safety of our students and staff members remains our highest priority.”
Authorities have not shared many details about the allegations against Smith, including how old the student was or how long their alleged sexual relationship went on for.
Police have asked that anyone who may have more information regarding this case contact Ocean Springs police at 228-875-2211.
It’s not currently clear if Smith has retained legal counsel or entered a plea. The Ocean Springs Police Department did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding updates in the case.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
