Newly-promoted ‘Teacher of the Year’ is arrested for ‘having s3x with student’

A former Mississippi Teacher of the Year has been arrested over allegations that she engaged in s3x with a student while working at Ocean Springs Middle School.

Olivia Marie Smith, who was named Teacher of the Year in 2022 and was recently promoted to assistant principal at Oak Park Elementary School, was arrested on Thursday following a tip-off that prompted a police investigation.

Smith has been charged with s3xual battery and enticement of a child to meet for s3xual purposes. Under Mississippi law, the s3xual battery charge carries a potential prison sentence of up to 30 years because of her position of authority.

According to investigators, Ocean Springs School District officials alerted the Ocean Springs Police Department and Mississippi Child Protective Services on June 20 after receiving information about alleged inappropriate conduct involving Smith.

In a statement, the school district said it was “deeply saddened” by the allegations and acted immediately after receiving the report. “After being tipped off about potential inappropriate behaviour taking place involving an employee, OSSD immediately notified OSPD and Mississippi Child Protective Services.” School officials also assured parents and the wider community that the matter was being treated seriously.

“We understand the gravity of this situation and the concern it may raise in our community. We want to reassure parents, students, and staff that we are addressing this matter with seriousness and diligence. The safety of our students and staff members remains our highest priority.”

A Jackson County Circuit Court judge set Smith’s bond at $50,000 for each charge. The investigation remains ongoing.