News Summary
The Texas Education Agency has launched an investigation into allegations against an educator from Burbank High School, concerning an inappropriate relationship with a former student. Claims suggest the relationship may have begun when the student was still underage. District officials confirm the educator is no longer with the school, and further interviews are underway. The case emphasizes the importance of safeguarding students within educational environments.
San Antonio – The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has initiated a formal investigation into allegations concerning Matthew Almaraz, a 40-year-old educator from Burbank High School within the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD). The investigation comes after allegations surfaced just over a month ago, claiming that Almaraz had an inappropriate relationship with a former student that potentially began when she was still a minor and under guardianship while enrolled at Luther Burbank High School.
District officials have confirmed that Almaraz is no longer associated with SAISD as of March 18. There is uncertainty regarding whether he resigned voluntarily or was terminated in light of the allegations. Initial reports suggested that the relationship was solely with a former student; however, recent developments indicate that the alleged relationship may have started before the student reached adulthood.
In a letter addressed to the Texas Attorney General’s Office, SAISD attorneys claimed that the former student was under 18 during certain relevant events. Investigators have reportedly interviewed multiple former students who have alleged that Almaraz was engaged in a relationship with the student while she was still a minor. Such actions could place Almaraz in violation of Section 21 of the Texas Penal Code, which addresses various sexual offenses.
Despite circulating rumors, SAISD administrators assert that they reported concerns regarding Almaraz to the TEA on March 4. A TEA spokesperson confirmed the initiation of a formal investigation regarding the allegations against him. Furthermore, Almaraz’s Texas teaching certification is under scrutiny by the TEA Educator Investigation Division.
This troubling situation began gaining attention after Almaraz contacted local media following initial reports of the accusations in March. He presented an email from an investigator with the SAISD Police Department indicating that the case was closed as of March 9. However, SAISD maintains that the investigation is ongoing notwithstanding Almaraz’s departure from the district.
Almaraz has been a part of the San Antonio education system since he began his teaching career at Burbank High School in 2012. He later moved to Harlandale Independent School District but returned to Burbank prior to the emergence of these serious allegations. His long-standing involvement with local schools may heighten the community’s concern regarding the allegations made against him.
As the investigation progresses, authorities will likely delve deeper into the claims raised against Almaraz. The outcome could have significant implications not only for Almaraz’s professional future but also for the integrity of the educational environment at Burbank High School and the broader San Antonio Independent School District.
The TEA’s rigorous examination aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students within Texas schools, and this case highlights the ongoing vigilance required to prevent any form of misconduct in educational institutions. All stakeholders, including parents, educators, and students, are encouraged to remain informed and engaged during this critical investigation.
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