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Two Jay High School Teachers Arrested For Having Sex With Minors
August 6, 2009
Two female Jay High School teachers were arrested Thursday on charges that they had sex in their homes with teenage boys in 2007.
Ashley Elenea Burkett, 31, and April Burford Watson, 33, both of Jay, were arrested Thursday afternoon, charged with having sexual relationships with minors. Both were released on $50,000 bond each after being booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail on three counts each of unlawful sexual activity with a minor, a second degree felony. Both were released on GPS monitors.
“The investigation was initiated on July 28, 2009 after an anonymous letter was sent to the Santa Rosa County School District alleging sexual relationships between two Jay High School teachers and male juveniles,” Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Sgt. Scott Haines said. The letter was turned over the Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office for investigation.
“Interviews were conducted with the alleged victims in the case. Two victims alleged that they were involved in sexual activity with Watson at her residence and the residence of Burkett between the months of July and October 2007. One other victim alleged that he was involved in sexual activity with Burkett at her residence and the residence of Watson between the months of July and October 2007,” Haines said. “Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
“The case made public involving two teachers within our school district being charged with improper conduct with minor age children is now in the judicial system,” School Board Chairman Ed Gray said in a statement released Thursday. “We are confident the investigation by the sheriff’s department and the adjudication within our court system of the charges will effectively deal with the matter. The school district will cooperate with all investigating agencies in a responsible matter.”
Burkett taught reading and special education students and was assistant volleyball coach last school year, according to the Jay High School web site. Watson taught math and was the advisor for the junior varsity cheerleaders, also according to the school web site. Watson was to be the varsity cheerleader sponsor for the upcoming school year and Burkett was to be the varsity volleyball coach.
Burkett resides in the 14000 block of Highway 89 in Jay, and Watson resides in the 4000 block of Matt Jernigan Road, also in Jay.
Details on the charges were not immediately available from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. More details will be posted as they become available.
Pictured above: Thursday, Jay High School teachers Ashley Burkett (left) and April Watson were arrested on charges that they had sexual relationships with minors. Submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Comments
202 Responses to “Two Jay High School Teachers Arrested For Having Sex With Minors”
I hurt for all involved. The teachers, the boys, the families, the children, the school..Sounds like mistakes were made and serious ones and sin has consequences! The only winner is Satan here!..he tempted the women the boys etc etc and they fell into it! Jay should be reaching out to all! All including the guilty and all partricipants….Dont we all have sin in our lives some cant see for the”plank” in their own eyes”…Can you throw the 1st stone? What would Jesus do? Really think about it?
Yes their will be consequences for the teachers if this is factually true but the community of Jay has an opporunity to rise above it and not gossip…not belittle..not hate and condemn…..but to learn what Christian love is and to be a community that rises above it…..what if it were your child or children involved? in the teacher role or the boys role etc. etc???
What would you want? what would you wish to see .how would you want to be treated..yes if true consequneces will be dealt..but afterward…..
What will you say to Jeasus if he asks waht you did? Reach out Jay Community to all with love and compassion and truth and grace…….
What will you do?
People go on with your own lives and stop talking about others and what they did.. That there is a sin in itself! That is what’s wrong with Jay, people gossip too much and that also has gotten so many fights and crap started, it needs to stop! People do stupid things without thinking about the end results…but everyone knew some things were going on back when I was there but didn’t talk about it ….I myself came too close of being a victim but I stopped it and from then on had no respect for that teacher. These girls are teachers and know better!!!!
If this is what happens at Jay sign me up. It didnt happen when I went to school, I feel this did not happen due to the fact that society does not now hold people accountable for their actions.
Jay on August 12th, 2009 9:05 pm class of 95 did you not read the statement above
“Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity
i agree with you Jay the two married women admitted this so everyone should stop taking up for them good people or not ! THEY BOTH SAID THEY DONE IT then they done it ….. why would they lie about what they done knowing they could be going to prison???????
Last comment on this subject—IT LOOKS AS IF THESE TWO TEACHERS HAVE FOUND A WAY TO KEEP THE YOUNG GUYS COMING TO SCHOOL.
Of course, I still don’t believe it happened at all, but if such a thing were to happen, I just think of the nightmares the poor seventeen year old boy children must have had. I forget what those kinds of nightmares are called.
Those who maintain there is no difference due to gender believe there is no difference between having some inserted into a person and being the person inserting it. I understand legally there is no such thing as consent from a minor, but physically…
Interesting how the Bible is used on both sides of the consideration. Those who think all rumors should be passed on must be using a different bible. Those who are certain they must condemn think it is different fromthe case where the people brought Jesus a woman caught in ther very act of adultery, wanting Him to pronounce the death sentence on her. In that instance, there could be no doubt she was guilty. Read for yourself what his response was.
Those who think any breaking of any law is as guilty as any other breaking of any law, well actually that is what the Bible says-even though it gives different penalties or punishments. If we break even one law we are as sinful as if we broke every law. And I have broken laws, although not with Jay teachers, not that I believe it happened without seeing it myself and people usually don’t do such things publicly.
What is reported to have happened is a bad thing, but save the lynch mobs until cooler weather.
class of 95 did you not read the statement above
“Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
I guess good people sleep with students and admit to it.
you people need to back off ashley and april till you find out to hole truth about what happen. i know ashley and her husband and they are both wonderful people and i think alot of the both of them. everyone here knows that boys and girl today are not what they use to be. it does not make it right but i promise you one thing ashley is one of the best people i know. god bless both of them and i hope their families can forgive them for this.
hey Barry………..guess what……..if that had been YOU {speeding or not}………as a male you would be in some serious cow mess…………..guess what Barry……?……wrong is wrong….and a law is a law………it has nothing to do with judging somebody so save your Bible quotes……………….its a law…..on the books dude
had the students been 18 or older, i dont believe that the teachers would have been legally procecuted, nor have had to register as a sex offender…however, they would, most certainly, have had their teaching licenses suspended or revoked….
Hey “Barry”, did you really just compare speeding to having sex with minors and THEN quote something from the bible? Do you really think that what these women did was ok? Even if the boys begged them for it, they did it. They are adult women who are TEACHERS and yes I can judge them because I am a teacher and would NEVER in a million years cross that line. I am not sure why everyone thinks they have to take up for these women. They broke the law. PERIOD. No matter how you swing it , Barry, it is wrong. If this was two men, you people would be going crazy but because two women from JAY everyone crowds around them and tries to protect them. I don’t care what their reasoning is behind it, THEY DID IT AND ADMITTED TO IT!
“Are you kidding me” stated that it is wrong because it is against the law. So is speeding but how many of use do it everyday!!!!
Judge not that ye be not judged.
I feel like if this went on 2 years ago….what has happened since and with how many more kids. If they did it then and got away with it, why not continue doing it. I just really wonder why the boys waited 2 years to bring this out. All this really did was make the women think they had gotten away with it.
Are you people serious? I am disgusted at the fact that people are taking up and feeling sorry for these women. Yes we all make mistakes, but having sex with an underaged student, no matter if they are 17 years old or 7 years old, it is againist the law and the moral code of teachers. This went on for 4 months that we know of. Is that really a mistake? Not to mention these “women” are married each with two small children. Instead of spending “quality” time with other people’s children, they should have been at home with their own.
J Mystery did you not read this from above “Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
Thank you to the media once again for putting people on trial before they even get a trial. The person that wrote this letter needs to come clean, if you don’t have the cahonas to sign your name then put your chicken head back in the ground. Last time I checked the “American way” is innocent until proven guilty. Is it a crime to walk around and text and be on your cell phone? No? Was this these boys first rodeo? No. Know a little history about the people you are discussing before you blatantly condemn these people and their families. They are good people. Oh yes, if all this goes away where will the retraction and apology be from the newspaper and such…on the back page. None of you know what happened or if anything indeed did happen, you were not there. Leave these people alone, maybe some of your sordid pasts will come out one day and you will have to stand trial before the public before you even get to be heard in court.
ok look yes jay is a little country town but that does not mean that we are retarded or dumb we can spell and we can speak proper english there is a little thing called mistakes everyone makes them.
what these former teachers did was not the town of jays fault so stop blaming it on jay!
What happened to MORALITY? TEACHERS who are role modles of right and wrong (Male or Female) Parents who teach right and wrong to their children. No matter what religion you are people who allowed the 10 commandments to be taken out of the school system to guide teachers and children how to behave!
When you allowed God to be kicked out of school, who do you think will take over control of the morals of the students and teachers? Look at the age of these teachers. They grew up in the Godless school system required by our courts.
This cituation will continue to get worse until it is excepted behavior just as
abortion has become.
Many people are saying that the boys were victoms, well I personally know the boys, and I am positive they don’t feel like victoms. The way I see it is this happens all the time with only a small percentage of the people getting caught. And for the people saying they are surprised that this happened at Jay, well I just graduated from Jay and trust me this doesn’t surprise me at all. I think the whole school should go under an investigation, especially the vice principle. Enough said.
When charged with a crime it hits the front page. When later found innocent of a crime it’s often the case that it’s not even reported or put on a back page somewhere. But the damage is done to your personal image in the community.
In this case, if the women are found innocent, having confessed to protect somebody and/or to stop a further investigation, then won’t a lot of you look silly.
Teachers are special people. It’s not beyond them to sacrifice themselves. Let’s take care of our own and leave this to the courts.
Psychologists tell us that it is not what happens to us that hurts us so much as what we tell ourselves about it. In other words it may be unfortunate to have been in a situation where you are seduced by a teacher or involved sexually with one in violation of law and community standards. But what do you tell yourself after the behavior draws these 180+ comments from the community? Can you forgive yourself? I hope so. People tend to “awfulize” these things in their minds and become neurotic, whereas they are simple mistakes that can be part of life.
I’ve assisted the courts and attorneys in rape and child molestation cases, not many, but enough to have learned that the community reacts in a totally irrational manner and much too loudly. This only further hurts the victim. Those who have NOT commented here are the most compassionate and least hurtful among you.
Soooooooo many rumors! One rumor I heard is that a parent went to Mr Dale about this and nothing was done. I am glad someone wrote the letter and hopefully something will be done. Back in the seventies something sort of the same happened but was taken care of the old way. That coach left town in a hurry. Only if this is taken care of by the law will anyone learn from it.
if the dirty laundry is being hung out, look out northview as these types of rumors exist at our school as well. i doubt anything will come of it.
anyone who thinks these women shouldn’t do jail time is probably a hypocrit because you wouldn’t want a 30 something year old male teacher getting a 17 year old female student drunk and have “unlawful sexual activity” with them
If so many of you were aware of this activity months ago, why didn’t you report it? Even if you were not sure of the facts, you can report and let someone investigate the rumors. Att-a-boy to the person that had the guts to finally write a letter to the school board. JHS is a great school overall and I always felt safe sending my children there. At least we don’t have heavy gang activity in our school. Support the families of these two women and teach your children to NOT make their children suffer for the acts of their mothers.
I have known Ashley for about 20 years, and I have known April a short while but her husband and family for about 20 years too. I was shocked, but shocked that they got caught, not that they actually did it. I am heartbroken for their husbands. They show pride in their relationship with their husbands and children (bragging about what a great marriage they have). There must be a lot of hidden hurt and pain in those girls, a lot of secrets.
I have been praying for their families for a long time, but lately more for the girls. The families have to go through so much shame, but these girls probably feel completely hopeless like they’ve lost everything. That’s when contemplative suicide comes in. I have been praying that they do not think they are hopeless. Sometimes the world can get so down on you (no matter what you’ve done) that you just don’t want to live anymore.
Sometimes, Jesus lets us get to the very bottom because we have nowhere else to turn, and we finally turn to Him and repent, and come to know Him. I pray this happens to both of them.
I graduated from Jay some 10 or so years ago, and I have to say, I heard this kind of thing go on about teachers and students, but I was naive and never believed them, I do now. It’s sad.
Ashley & April, I will be praying for you guys. This too will pass. Just change, ask God to change this part of you that desires this. He can do it!
Just wondering way the news hasn’t said anything more about it or about the trouble they could be facing. Has anybody heard a court date?
I think there will be more “issues” that will soon rise to the surface.
“He who is without sin, let him/her cast the first stone” and “judge not lest you be judged”.
But first we must point to what God has already judged therefore the judgment does not originate from us. “Thou shall not commit adultery” and “the world has already been judged”. Adultery is outright rebellion against God Almighty and the resulting consequences are great.
But judgment is reconciled by faith through repentence in Christ Jesus and one is judged no more but made free to do what is right in the sight of God.
That young lady in Pensacola got prison time and i hope these two young women do too, they are not any different than her . they deserve to serve a lot of time too. They knew they were doing wrong. They should have to face the same thing Janelle Byrd did, and she was suppose to be a sheltered christian young lady. I am sorry for their families but that is the price that has to be paid.
Jeannie, earlier you called me out, calling me a coward for not posting my name. Well, my name is KELLY. You also said that I couldn’t have any children. Well, I DO! A little girl the same age as Ashley’s little girl.
You sound like you sure do know alot about the situation and you are just full of opinions! Unless you are the second coming of Christ, BACK OFF. I certainly do not agree with what these 2 teachers have done and some of the comments on here sound like people who are truly concerned about the welfare of the children involved. But YOU….. you sound like maybe you are a little bitter towards these teachers and for reasons that have nothing to do with what the 2 of them did 2 years ago.
Come on and let me have it…..I know that you are just full of yourself and can not wait to comment!
I was informed after the teachers were arrested that a rumor regarding this had been around for 2 years. Why were they not told on? According to the kids of the school, at that time, both of these women befriended the cheerleaders and football players and there may have been alcohol involved. Fortunately now, someone has gotten upset with these two and ratted them out per se’.
I know many here are saying “If it were a girl it would be different” or “they are boys and they should get a pat on the back for bangin’ a teacher”. Well, there are many stories I am sure that will come out now. I feel this has happened for many years (25+) with many teachers (male and female) to many students. If you want to know why people didn’t come forward, some were threatened, I am sure, others just let the rumor go in one ear and out of the other. Who wants to believe that a teacher would do such a thing. The main reason is most parents say “It’s not my child”. What a shame!
I graduated from Jay in the 80s. I know first hand that some of the teachers were really close to their students, not always in a bad way. We had the utmost respect for several teachers, and let me say, not all teachers are like this.
For those who are saying the principal and more staff knew about this, if they knew, they need to go. I think the school board needs to investigate Jay High fully.
All we as parents can do, at this time, is pray that God protects our children.
I know both of these teachers very well, it did not surprise me at all, if you knew the past of Watson, you would agree. I hope she gets what she deserves, she has a sickness and needs help. However Burkett is very much wrong also but she got caught up with Watson, and made some very poor decisions.
They both should have known better, I just hope justice is served!
why does everyone act like it is the Town Of Jay’s fault this happened. I am sure this has happened in other schools around the area, and no one found out . I am not from Jay, but I don’t think the whole town is at fault here.I don’t think the boys ages has anything to do with the situation either. The ladies were in a position of authority, and that is what makes the situation bad.We just expect more from our teachers, even though they are human like the rest of us.I hope the ones from the tri city are not thinking this want happen to us, because it can happen anywhere.. I love my town and lot of bad things go on here, but I don’t want people judging the whole town because of the ones that makes it look bad. There are good and bad people everywhere, but don’t throw away a whole basket of apples just because one is bad.
If Jay didn’t look bad before, it does now!!!!!!!!!!! Even the former teachers can’t spell. No more post people, you are making it worse……. post by post!!!!
Does anyone from Jay know how to speak proper English??????? A true hick town. If you have read this far, you’ll know what I mean.
Having gone through 12 years of school myself at that prejudice, snob infested hole, I can believe whole-heartedly the corruption that has taken place. I used to see students get their grades bumped up because of their involvement in sports. If you weren’t one of the popular kids and trust me, the teachers let you know if you weren’t, just sit back and keep your mouth shut. They were so busy sucking up to the ones with the oil money. The two “administrators” one having been one of those “popular ones of 19_ _…. and the other__ he knows what he did years ago….. The two teachers need to be canned, do their time, and the entire school and town needs a good kick in the butt and a dose of reality.
My husband would have beat me if not killed me and I think my parents would have been proud of him. And none of us agree with hurting others. I dont know how old these peoples kids are but yes my kids would be calling me a freak and all other bad names. These people are teachers they should know better. Sleeping with a child does not make you young again. It just makes you dirty old ladies. They dont have to sleep with a young man to feel better about theirselves maybe they should watch a “movie” and learn some new moves to please a grown man.
This incedent is just the symptom of bigger problems. Does anyone have any solutions?
If the boys are of legal consent,( Is 17 considerd legal age of conscent?),They should be fired,and barred from teaching,not convicted. if 17 is not age of consent then by all means they need to be convicted .
If the boys were 17 at the time were they not of the age of consent?If so the teachers should by all means be fired ,but not prosecuted.If 17 is not legal conscent then yes they should be convicted.( B.E.)
REGARDING:
“One final question. Ms. Watson’s husband is the PE teacher at JES and coaches at the high school also. When did he know of this? He is legally obligated to report anything like this even if it was his wife. If he thought this was OK, is it also OK for him to engage in the same activities?”
The Constitution forbids compulsion of a person to testify against himself. It is my understanding that under common law, a husband and a spouse are considered one person, the husband–of course.
In the old days, the horrific crime under discussion would have been laid at the feet of the husband because it was understood that a wife only did what her husband told her to do. (this is true, right?)
Even if we were to assume the crime actually happened (and I still just can’t believe it) the husband would not have to report it because that would bring harm to him. (at the very least, he would be open to derision for lack of manliness)
Testifying would also harm his children and you just can’t force people to hurt their families. It ain’t right. Why add to the injustice?
Okay, I know, you are asking, “What about all the other poor innocent children they might harm?”
That’s bad too, but remember two wrongs don’t make a right. although three lefts do.
I’ve have several friends that had boys that had “WATSON” for a teacher. Each of them told “WATSON” I know your secret! Guess what happened next? “WATSON” passed each of them with an “A” in her class. Now you can’t very well say “WATSON” didn’t know what she was doing! Coach Watson at the elementary school is one heck of a couch for our younger kids. I can only hope that he decides to possibly end the marriage for himself and the kids. Then he needs to get FULL CUSTODY and move forward. He deserves so much more! As far as “BURKETT” lets just hope momma & daddy don’t pay her way through this one. Then again, if justice prevails each of the females with do some time and have to register as a sex offender. Jay residents go to FDLE, look up sex offenders and put in our zip code. You will be amazed in what you see.
To the people who have stated that our school needs to be sweep cleaned, I couldn’t agree more. It’s ashame that this takes place here in our community. Our teacher’s abilities to teach and keep us an “A” school is awesome. But, to know someone to get where you want to be is uncalled for. What about their qualifications?
Anyway, I will get off the soap box for now. My prayers and thoughts are with all families involved, especially to the husband’s and children of the two females.
Ok.. I had Mrs. Watson and Mrs. Burkett last year. I really think that all of this is kinda funny considering i have known them since i was in high school. But besides that fact i don’t think that they should be allowed to teach at Jay High School. But seeing as how Mrs. Watsons husband and Mrs. Burketts brother is both football coaches it will be hard for them to not be on the schools campus. I don’t really have nothing against them but this is pretty messed up.
I was really close to both of these teachers and I loved them both very much. But I do not feel sorry for them at all. They deserve every punishment that they get. The boys are to blame too though, they were old enough to know better. However, as the adults in the situation Mrs. Watson and Mrs. Burkett both should have taken the responsibilty to say no! As for you people who don’t know them or don’t know the truth… keep your mouth shut. The authorities have it under control so stop worrying about it. They will face their punishment just like anyone else would. Pray for their families and especially their kids.
Bully, and Jay Resident. I am the child you both mentioned, it was widely known throughout the school and town. For the news to pick it up would have severely blown it out of proportion, the student and I are good friends now, and everyone involved in the incident and I are all on good terms.(Hopefully.) Also, anyone that was involved in the incident also know that I tend to joke about things that are no matter of joking, and I also have a few mental problems, and how , Bully do you know about these things when quote, No one had heard about this?
In regards to this story, I saw this coming from a mile away, at least for Mrs Watson. Rumors have circulated since she had come to our school that she had been removed from a previous school for sexual relations.
a gentle suggestion for those who feel led to comment publicly in these forums: while youre typing out your input (regarding these articles), why not keep a dictionary at hand? (i do)…honestly, it just DOES NOT reflect particularly well on the many contributors, who attend jay now, or are former graduates of jay hs, to see the VAST amount of spelling errors..trust me, i know that i am NOT perfect w/my spelling always, but…i do try
JHS Students…. You sound like just what you are… KIDS! It is against the law to contribute alcohol to minors! Aside from them having sex with the BOYS, what if those BOYS had left from the TEACHERS houses (Drunk) and killed some innocent people on the road? Give them a break?! No way! This goes beyond just having sex… the teachers thought they were above the law and they need to be punished to the fullest extent. I have children and one not too far from 16… I really would not expect my son to be at a teachers house drinking, let alone having sex WITH ANYONE!!!! But, if that ever happens to be the case… I’ll not rest until those teachers are behind bars!
I think that the boys should get in as much trouble as Mrs. Ashley and April. They were 17 at the time and knew what was going to happen, they were one year from being a legal adult, and it was not like this was there first time drinking! I know that both teachers are sincerely sorry, and I think they do not deserve full punishment since the boys drove themselves to the houses, could have bought the alcohol themselves (in Jay underage purchases of alcohol is not rare), and they put as much into as the teachers. Yes, they should have said no, but they didn’t. You have to live and learn, so give them, there families, and children a break!
One final question. Ms. Watson’s husband is the PE teacher at JES and coaches at the high school also. When did he know of this? He is legally obligated to report anything like this even if it was his wife. If he thought this was OK, is it also OK for him to engage in the same activities?
Sorry, but I just have to say it.
It’s “clique” not “click”
I’m wondering if these ladies ( for lack of a better word ) will have to register as sex offenders? This is child molestation right? Molestation is defined as “the sexual exploitation of a child by an adult for sexual gratification or for profit.”
I agree with the former JHS. I bet they get off with no prison time. I would like to see equal justice though, it makes me mad when these spoiled rotten people(for lack of a better word and can’t cuss on here) get to go unpunished because of who they are or how much money they have. I’m with the one that said they would be persacuted….. Me too. They probably wouldn’t even give me a trial. these heffers are stupid and sick. Why if they werent being taken care of at home didnt they just go find a guy of legal age to cheat with. They could have found a good man thats single….. have some fun with him …… instead of asking some teenagersover
REGARDING:
ok I’ve seen this enough.
There means “you are going there:”—OR AT LEAST A PLACE NOT HERE
Their means ” it is their fault”—OR AT LEAST SOMETHING THEY POSESS
They’re means they are not going there.–A CONTRACTION OF THEY ARE
Did you guys miss this in school?
Sorry I just can’t help it.
============================================================
I never gripe but it was interesting how badly it was misused. Now that my faith in the educational system is so shaken, I’m almost tempted to question the FCAT scores.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind driving others crazier (too late to be driven crazy, I fear), not worrying about spelling, punctuation, grammar certainly allows you to more fully express yourself.
I’m reminded of a Tee shirt writing: TU YERS EGGO AYE KUDNT EVN SPEL ENJENER AN NOW EYE YAR WON
I have to agree with “Stop It”. these were not ladies at the time of their actions on these young men. I realize that the double standard about boys will be boys but I for one am really sick and tired of some people getting away with illegal acts because of some arbitrary standard that makes it wrong for one person to do something like this but ok (or at least look the other way) for someone else. What I’m saying is, if I had been a teacher and did this with a 17 yr old female student, you can bet your last dollar that I would be prosecuted, tried and found guilty and sentenced to a very punitive committment. And that’s as it should be.
I wonder if the “teachers” will ACTUALLY DO any time in prison. I know of guys who have gone to prison for the exact same thing… Statutory Rape. 21 year old guy had sex with a 16 year old girl. The fact that this went on from July to October tells me that this was not just “a mistake”.
ok I’ve seen this enough.
There means “you are going there:”
Their means ” it is their fault”
They’re means they are not going there.
Did you guys miss this in school?
Sorry I just can’t help it.
I am a 2009 graduate of Jay High School! I have to admit when I first heard of the teachers turning themselves in i was shocked that they actually admitted to it but not shocked of the accusations. I have known both of these women ever since they first started teaching at JHS! I have known Mrs. Burkett for longer because her dad was my science teacher! Both of these women were the ONLY two teachers at Jay(while I was attending) to always walk around the halls texting on their cell phones or making phone calls! Needless to say they acted like they were still in high school! I have known about this going on for 2 years and it sickens me that these two women would do this! True the boys are not innocent, like everyone has stated in previous comments the boys are boys and it is ANY teenage boys dream to “hook up” with a teacher! That would have been the point when the teachers should have said no! I do not feel sorry for the teachers or students, I feel sorry for their husbands and kids! Also, for them to have done it in their own homes is just DISGUSTING!!!! I am glad that they have finally been caught and I sincerely hope that they get the punishment they deserve! I personally would not be suprised if these women get off, that they will continue with their “affairs” or whatever you want to call it!
THANK YOU!! to the person who wrote the letter!
I can’t belive the way some people think , a teacher is a adult and a student is a child .I think if the staff at Jay High new this happened two years ago and did not report them that they should be in trouble also. The staff should be there for the students not to cover up for there friends.
Someone from outside of Jay, please investigate the school. Don’t leave it to the locals! Jay is fill with administrators/teachers/office staff who are within the local click catering to others in the click and belittling the rest.
THANK YOU … to the author of the anonymous letter.
This is such a sad situation all the way around., Many innocent people in these two girls families and the boys families are hurt and innocently affected. .. I taught many years at Jay and I know, and have known for many years this: ALCOHOL IS AN EVEIL CANCER THAT CHANGES PEOPLE TEMPORARILY AND PERMANENTLY. There are lots of things that happen to people (all ages) because they are under the influence of alcohol- at parties- at other people’s homes,- at the teenagers homes,- at homes of other adults. That doesn’t make the occurance excusable, but it does make it preventable. I have heard some really scarry things from teenagers about what happened at a parties. In one event, I approached a parent about what I had heard, and was told I was lying . What else can you do? All I can say here is we should make good decisions always, but under the influence of alcohol, poor decisions are made, and we are still responsible for what we did. There are wonderful teachers at Jay High School who care about the children, but I can tell the atmosphere has changed. There are many wonderful students at Jay High School. Don’t judge the school by this incident. Pray for them. It doesn’t matter what church you go to. It is all about the deep faith and love that you have in your heart. Go forward and do not look back.
These ladies are my friends. They have made a horrible mistake and they know it. They made this horrible mistake 2 years ago and I am sure that they have had to live with this haunting them for 2 years. They are being punished. Their picture is all over the papers and the television. They will lose their jobs and will pay for what they did for the rest of their lives. Please find something else to do with your time instead of sitting here judging and judging and judging. They are great mothers and wives no matter if they made this horrible choice 2 years ago. Please know that their loved ones read your comments and they hurt. Their loved ones are hurting enough already. They are not rapist by no means. However, they know that they will be punished but let’s leave that to the the real judge.
Jay High School is a great school. I went their all my life and my children attend JHS now. Why is it that you need to point fingers in every direction? Enough damage has been done so why try to bring everyone down. I am sure that the administration, along with other teachers have more to do than listen to rumors that circulate the school. If they did not witness what went on between these ladies and these boys, but perhaps heard about it, it is called a rumor. I believe these ladies would like to take their punishment without bringing everyone else down with them.
Well David Green have you figured out yet that they are both. and from what I understand that there maybe more than just the three boys that was first reported to be so how long has it really been going on for and why if it was first reported 2 years ago did it take so long for them to get into trouble. Jay is Jay, there motto should be HIDE IT, COVER IT UP!!!!!! THANK God my kids do not go there. because when you live there and you know everyone and hear about everything that is going on in the school, church and community it scares you. And yes I did say church!!! the so called christian the churches are really no better than the school.
Haines said. “Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
Attention David H. Green: THEY admitted to unlawful sexual conduct!!!!! “What part of that don’t you understand?”
The part which would make it true. I’d rather think they were liars than child molesters. Thus, even in the face of their reported admission, I try to find some way they can be innocent and Jay as good a town as I believed it to be.
I definitely agree they need to clean house at Jay High School. The school board needs to start with the administration and do a thorough investigation. They also need to deal appropriately with all the faculty/staff that was aware of it and did not report it. It is their duty to report any wrongdoing to their knowledge. There is too much that goes on and is simply brushed aside to keep up appearances. Westmoreland is more concerned with everything looking good on the outside than he is with offending someone. Who cares? Somebody has got to put a stop to all the ridiculous mess going on behind the scenes. This instance is just part of the problem. The dress code might as well be non-existant, there has been numerous thefts of property and money from students, and bullying that is ignored until it goes too far. It is a sad day when students would rather transfer schools or be home-schooled then deal with the day to day drama that goes on. Our kids are there to learn academics, not how to advance your social status.
Attention David H. Green: THEY admitted to unlawful sexual conduct!!!!! What part of that don’t you understand?
I am so amazed to read the comments the different people wrote on this article! These women are mothers, they are Christians ,they are wives, all these different rolls they play. What it really boils down to is they seduced an under age boy or boys, they broke the law, and hopefully they will, do some jail time, hopefully not a federal prison,hopefully one where they can get a good taste of what they were getting in to with this (these) under age kids. And I don’t know anything about Santa Rosa County laws on this kind of thing, but I would be willing to bet they won’t be allowed to teach again.
Even with:
“Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
I still assume they’re innocent.
I can imagine giving a sarcastic response like, “Yeah, sure, I took on the whole football team during break:” and them reporting,
“She admitted it and claimed to have had carnal relations with other minors as well.”
I know one person who carries a lawyer’s card because of how an officer twisted what he said. He decided in the future to simply offer the card and talk to my lawyer.
I also assume officers are honest and innocent but I just don’t want to bet my life and my freedom on it.
I assume they’re innocent
get a grip people Jay school is no different than the others, only thing is they got caught. People transfer there kids to that school for one reason or the other all the time. ( Sports, Sex, Drugs, or NO BLACK KIDS) Face It. The only ones you should feel sorry for are the children of Ashley and April all of the rest are guilty. If the husbands had been doing there job at home these so called ladies would not be out looking for students. The administration and other teachers also school board are all guilty of sweeping it under the rug. The boys that they picked may not be angels, but they picked them because of who they are . Yes Jay is a Click town and if you are in the click you can do what ever you want and there will not be any consequenses. Yes they do deserve to be punished. It did not happen once but several time not at school but at there homes. So where were there husbands when this was going on in their homes. So feel sorry for all the children involved in this because Jay is not a very forgiving town. Unless you are one of the click. So they may forgive Ashley and April in the end. ” Poor mistreated little rich Ladies everything handed to me on a silver platter because of who I am”. The boys and their families will not be forgiven because the will the ones who turned them in.
They need to clean house at Jay School. They need to get rid of all the people that new about it and did not do anything about it, they are just as guilty for letting them stay after they found out about what was going on. They also nedd to do something about the way the (children) act they are practically making out in the halls, I could not believe my eyes! When I went to school your were not allowed to act that way. I do not care if times are diffrent now it is still not right to act that way, you are there to learn.
I am 18 already (may) and going to be a senior this year. if they got arrested I guess it is too late to transfer to Jay high school. there sure are not any teachers like that @ northview. me and my friends are not upset or anything by this, us guys would like this. I bet everyone would feel different if it was a older man teacher and high school girls. I dk why it is different if you are a girl? after all most high school boys dream of getting an older girl. I mean, it is wrong if you are like a younger student, but if you are 18 or older why not. it would be way tempting as those teachers look good. if you ask around I am sure there are others who feel like this. I am just saying what my friends and me have all been talking about n thinking.
If Wyrosdick and the school board are worth their salt, they will get out a big broom and start lifting every rug and clean house. Jay administration turns a blind eye, hires unqualified teachers because of family ties; teachers chat on cellphones instead of teaching and talk to students as if they are dogs. I think the chemistry teacher is no longer qualified to teach chemistry, but still is. They should set a standard, get rid of the chaff, keep the good ones and hire qualified teachers and administrators.
I know Ashley and her family. Her dad was my teacher and her mom played piano at church and a teacher as well. I know her brother. Great family. There obviously was a problem that she felt this could soothe. I hope she and April repents for what has happened and I hope the boys involved repent as well.
I am a sinner too, but Jesus loved me enough to die on the cross for my sins. i struggle everyday and I ask for forgivness everyday.
They will pay for their crimes. I just hope that they repent and if they don’t know Jesus, I hope and pray they will “now” give themselves to Christ.
“Every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” , This WILL happen ladies and gentleman. Believe it or not.
Bill – I love you brother and so does Jesus!
May God bless the boys involved and their families, the Diamonds and the Watson families.
Royalnote sounds likes you are teaching you children the correct way to treat other children. I am sure a teacher would love to have them in her class room. I hope that the children of these teachers have true friends as it seems that your children would be to someone.
Is this the only school that they taught at. How long? where did they do their student teaching? Has Mrs. Burkettt ever lived in the Atmore area? In th e state of Flordia what age would this not be against the law? 18 or 21
My concern is for the families of those involved. My heart goes out to them, especially their sweet babies.
I don’t know April, but I’ve known Ashley all of our lives. The children are around the same age as mine. I know kids can be cruel and, most likely, this will unfortunately haunt them in the future. We, as parents, need to take it upon ourselves to make sure we teach our children respect for others. Even though they’re young, my children know not to shun someone because of something that is not their fault. Not to mention, the children around the ages of the suspects’ are too young to be told or hear anything about this situation.
I’ve lived in Jay almost my entire life. Most of the comments I’ve read make sense. I partially agree with almost all of them. The comment that stuck with me the most was that someone should turn JHS over from top to bottom. I totally agree with this. I can think of 3 people right now that were more qualified, more experienced, and had better credentials than “locals” applying for the same job teaching at JHS. Guess who got the job. Some “weeding” is certainly in order.
Lastly, please use correct grammar. It is annoying and embarrassing. I don’t claim to be perfect, but at least try.
Do the right thing. Be the bigger person.
I think these women deserve to be in prison for life for what they have done.
Children are supposed to be safe at schools.
Why should any of this surprise us.
This is life in today’s good old USA.
Almost 50 years ago our Supreme Court declared as a Federal Crime to begin a class session with prayer and instruction in the Holy Scriptures.
The seeds of this decesion simply sprung root…and now we are eating the fruits of our planting.
It seems like logical behavior since there is no more “moral absolutes” in public schools..
The teachers and students involved just gave way to temptation.
Why should this story shock anyone
i had msr watson, she was a good teacher and a good person give her a break like u havent done nothin wrong
Yes, what they did was wrong. However, I personally know the boys and they are certainly not pitiful, they definitely knew what they were doing. This is not a rape situation. Some people are making it seem like they abused small children, simply because they don’t know the situation or the people involved. Both are in the wrong.
Also, people saying Jay is a bad school need to open their eyes. Look around, crazy stuff happens at every school, in every county, in every state. Just because this is the biggest scandal Jay has seen in a long time doesn’t mean everyone should begin bashing on Jay. Check out how long Jay has been an “A” school and then say that our teachers don’t teach us anything and don’t care about our education.
Both of these women were very well known in the community; however, that doesn’t mean they are getting off easy, its actually worse because they have to deal with public hummiliation considering the fact that they are so popular and come from such great families. And yes, they do come from GREAT families and my sympathy goes out to them.
I hope that everything works out for the children. I know how other kids can be, and the children will be in my prayers when they have to face the ridicule at school. This is a bad situation and I am in no way taking up for these women, they were wrong and should be punished for their actions as anyone else would be. But if you dont know the situation, please keep your comments to yourself. They know they did wrong and don’t need to be reminded by the whole world, because they are going through enough as it is.
It is sad to read the comments that up hold the actions of these two. I can not believe any parent of girls or boys would find this action acceptable. As a parent of daughters myself I just pray that I have raised them to have more self respect for themselves and more respect for others than this. They were the adults and knew better. And to think this didn’t happen at school this happened in their homes. Seems pretty well planned to me. They were wrong and now they have to face the consequences. And I say to that GOOD!!!YOU DESERVE WHAT YOU GET!!!!!
I think Peter Gulliam said it best!
“jus me”….. that is so stupid. If your son got AIDS from a 31 year old teacher I bet you’d be mad. What is the difference between the son and the daughter having sex with a 31 year old?
i wouldnt b mad bout my son havin sex with a 31 year old teacher but it would b different if my daughter had sex with a 31 year old teacher
The only issue I have with this article is that the two teachers are reported to be guilty of “having sex with minors”. A teacher has a duty of care over students, regardless of the students age and regardless of whether or not the teacher teaches the students directly. The crime these two teachers committed is statutory rape, pure and simple. The gender of the teachers doesn’t matter, the gender of the students doesn’t matter, and whether or not the students liked it or wanted it, doesn’t matter. Since when is it ok for a teacher to give a teenage student sex, just because the student wants it? It’s ethically wrong, morally wrong, legally wrong, and if a male teacher did the same thing to a female student, he would be charged with rape. Appropriately.
Sorry to burst your bubble Cody, but the two-faced cows are pictured above.
And, seriously, do you honestly think people walk around not judging absolutely everything they see, hear, taste, feel, and smell? Everything everybody does is based on judgment. That’s actually normal. What are we supposed to do, check our brains at the door or numb ourselves with drugs or a lobotomy? The two-faced cows above used their judgment as well. Think about it. Maybe you mean we shouldn’t ‘try’ them as if we were judge and jury. I would agree with that. They’re entitled to due process. The only issue at this juncture, is that they appear to have inconveniently admitted to their two-faced nature already.
And I can assure you that while we all make mistakes, yours truly included, I’d never sleep with your children just because I could. So on the topic at hand, I’m certainly not two-faced. How bout you?
Bully, the child that you are talking about is mine. My child was threatened by a boy on the school bus. He said that he would walk over to our house and kill us and burn down the house. My child was terrified. We called the police and made an official report. I went and told the principal the next morning before school. The other kid was removed from the school and sent home for a week. I believe that he was to write an apology to my child and myself. He never did that but he did apologize to my child.
I had heard the rumors about this teacher- student stuff over a year ago. If I knew about it I am sure the personal at the school did too. Makes me wonder why something wasn’t done about it then.
Honestly who can you say good wives, and mothers. Obsvuiolsy you must have these kind of skeletons in your closet. If they really was the family orientated women alot of you clam that they are how did they mange to have time for such action to take place. I am a working mother of two kids, a wife and know where in my schedule do i every have time for myself they must be two selfish women. because when you have kids life is about them not yourself. so all of you that are upholding them are the ones that need to stand back and look in the mirror. honestly you must be trying to fool yourself.
Ever Jay resident is not illiterate and stupid. The only stupid ones are these two ladies (actually they are not ladies only female by gender, ladies do not behave in this manner). Have you ever heard of a typographical error????
This is for all of you who sit behind your computers and judge others as if you have no sin, and have never done anything wrong. You don’t know anything but I know that you are all jealous sick individuals who hide behind (user names) because your to faced cows.
There is only sin.not big sins..not little sins……so I sure wish some of You would check Your closets…..welfare fraud…food stamp fraud….writing bad checks….running red lights…speeding..stealing time from Your employer….lying….adultery….the list goes on and on..They are all guilty even The little boys……..right or wrong????
Sorry, my compassion is for the husbands, children, and any one else hurt by the disgusting actions of these two disgusting women. And note I said ‘actions’ not action as in ‘one moment.’ This occurred over the course of more than ‘one moment’ where there was plenty of time to reflect on ones actions and make a correction if they were truly such good mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, and friends, and, presumably, Christians. This wasn’t a little mistake. This wasn’t simply a bad choice.
I’m sick of the ‘they made a very bad choice’ rationalization. A very bad choice? Ya think? They made a very bad illegal choice. And they knew it. And they did it repeatedly. In their homes. Was that lost on them? Was it really just a momentary lapse? Oh, we’re just making a little mistake. Oh, I like it like that…
Unfortunately, bad people aren’t always bad all the time and in all ways. In fact that’s rarely true. And one ‘extended’ moment in your life _can_ define you as a person. It certainly defines these two nitwits. And worse, watch it define their husbands and kids as well.
Calling them ‘ladies’ is laughable. I have another word for them, but I’m sure it would be censored.
This public humiliation is part of their consequence. It’s what _should_ happen. So stop with the ‘cut it out comments.’ Hiding and cover up is what helped enable this situation to begin with. Fortunately, now they have no where to hide.
And stop with the ‘if someone is publicly disgusted by this, then they must have an equal set of skeletons in their closet.’ Really? Maybe you just think that because of yourself and those your surround yourself by. I assure you I have nothing like this in my closet. And, to my knowledge, neither does any one around me. But if I found out someone around me _did_ have such a skeleton, I certainly wouldn’t be telling people to shut up and leave them alone. The fact is, that they would need to accept the consequences of their own actions. And public humiliation is usually one of them.
Have a nice day.
I bet there is NOT a soul on this comment line who knows about the kid who threatened the life of another, on the school bus, during this past school year. The kid was sent of off for a couple of weeks and guess what. …swept under the rug and back to school and this is not rumor, it is fact. And yes, the local administration knew about it. I would like to know what else they are hiding.
Good wives? Can you say that with a straight face? Good wives, are you serious?
GOOD WIVES?!?! C’mon now. A moment in your life this serious DOES define you. As a sex offender.
Good wives, good greif.
One moment in your life, does not define you as a person.
Please understand that both of these teachers have husbands and small children. They know better than anyone what they did was wrong. They made a very bad choice. Now they will pay for that choice the rest of their lives. For those of you who have hateful things to say about these women, I’d like you to know they are not bad people. They are good mothers, wives, daughters, sisters and friends. You may ask how I can say that when they so obviously weren’t thinking of these people when they made the choice they made. I will repeat to you the begining of my post………
One moment in your life, does not define you as a person.
Oh and the look so NORMAL!!!
So did Hitler. Well, maybe not Hitler, but…
Not only do you have to worry about students being shot at school now this.
Does Jay have a police department or sub station. This goes on more than you think A teacher is suppose to set a example. What would be the difference in a 24 year old girl having sex with a child under 18. It happens all the time in a town across the line. This is just as unlawful. I wish some of this would would be exposed. Women that come from well known familys. you wold be shocked I am not talking about Jay. This happens ever day just glad that they got caught.
HElp me to understand….First I understand why everyone is so upset , YES it is wrong, Yes, the ladies should be punished, but we are talking about Jay here .. some of you people are saying it is ok what they did spank there hands, congratulate the boys and send them all back to doing things as normal. But when a teenage boy has sex with a young ( 16yr old) girl,and they have both consented to it , he is to be slammed in jail and never let out. If these 2 boys were 17 they knew what was right and wrong..They probably bragged about it to all there friends, Yes the teachers are wrong on so many levels , too old to be having sex with a BOY that young, breaking your wedding vows, and of course sleeping with YOUR student. Come on People there are more things to be gripping about. Like why did it take 2 yrs to do anything ?? I am sorry did somebody get mad at one of the ladies and then run and tattle? GROW UP!!!
Shoot I have lived in the Tri-CIty area my whole life , and God forbid a colored person want to live in Jay or go to School there and no body ever says anything , but let a 17 yr old boy have sex with a married teacher( and yes I am sure they both knew what they were doing and wanted it too) and it makes front page news and national news .. again GROW UP. I am pretty sure we can find something a little better to B***H about . The teachers need to have there license revoked, but as far as jail time , I don’t think so , if they do then there are a lot of other ppl who need to go to jail too. IF your child is 18,19,20 or older and dating a 16,17 yr old I guess this means we should have them arrested too. HE who without sin can cast the first stone.
Just a couple of my personal thoughts. I do not know either of the ladies or the boys. SO my opinion is completely unbiased.
I am a young and attractive high school teacher. I worked hard for my degrees and take my job very seriously. Teaching is a profession and when I go to work, I go there to do my job and not to make friends with other teachers OR students. In order to maintain professionalism, I am intolerant of inappropriate or crude comments regarding my appearance and/or personal life. Yes, there have been times when students have made inappropriate comments, and as an educator I am trained on how to properly handle those situations. It’s called disciplinary action. It’s a very bad decision to “befriend” your students. Your job is to educate; if your students need a “friend,” send them to the Guidance Counselor because that’s their job. I do not want to work alongside any educator engaged in this type of behavior. It’s a disgrace to the profession and gives young, attractive, and serious educators like myself a bad name.
These boys are not angles…….They knew what They were doing.However these teachers were in the wrong also.Yes They should be punished…..but only by the law that fits the crime.Alot of You all would like to see them hung it seems. Look at some of the things that You all have done……….Well….????????
there is a serious problem at JHS, most of the teachers hired there are family members of a previous teacher that retired. It’s almost like inheiriting a job postion at this schoool. The kids who don’t have the name are left behind, because their parents are not in the locale social clubs. Mrs. Burkett has a brother that coaches there and there dad just retired, Mrs. Watson has a husband that coaches there and so on and so on…..The school board needs to quit hiring the local natives and hire some outside teachers to keep the socialites in check.. and the other problem at this school is the busy body parents who hang out at the school all day or every chance they get hoping to get their childs foot in the door of the social elite, if you dont teach there you should not be there. !!!!!
Jay is about having the right last name and being in a click. So instead of being hick town it is the click town. If these women wouldn’t have been in the click group,it would be fine to cast stones. So all of you that think you are better then the next person needs to wake up and smell the roses, they ADMITTED to it. So open your eyes and see the light. They are absolutely in the wrong so why keep up holding them because they are a Watson and Diamond(Burkett). Wrong is wrong. I feel very sorry for the family of these two women. But obviously they didnt take their familys into considerstion. I hope that justice is served even for the teachers and administration that had previous knowledge of this situation.
I know the boys and I know the teachers they both made mistakes. But I think it should have been stopped last year when the administration (principal, vice-principal and many football coaches) found out . It is a shame that our school administration can turn a blind eye to all the happenings. Shouldn’t they be held responsible? Or the School Board for letting them continue. How many other boys are out there that is afraid to come forward? Afraid to what will happen to them at school.
for added clarifiction “can you READ”, i dont believe that i said “church”…i believe that i said “God”, (should you care to re-read my comment)…by saying God, i assumed most would understand that i was referring to the specific biblical teachings given to us in the 10 commandments(by God)…which, i will REPEAT, is desperately needed….obviously, that alone will not stop evil in our schools or anywhere, for that matter…but, i do believe that allowing prayer time during school or referenes to God in assemblies, etc. would provide a steady reminder for students to not leave God out of their lives….i dont like at all the notion, by some, that God, our Creator, is not important enough to even be mentioned..or, it is somehow a ‘taboo’ subject while in school….a personal ongoing spiritual relationship w/Jesus Christ is what determines a “devout Christian” …not, “going to church”…and, i do believe, as well, that ANYONE can be redeemed, made whole and returned to the family of God…you can always run from the truth, but you cant hide….and, i wholeheartedly agree w/you on one thing…..people SHOULD open up their bibles and read….and, God bless America, the land of FREE SPEECH!
This did not happen because of a corrupt communtiy or because religion has been taken out of the schools. This happened because of pure stupidity.
Stupidity on part of the teachers and the students.
As teachers they knew better than to have relationships with their students. These boys were supposedly around 17 years old. If they wanted younger men couldn’t they have waited until they were 18. Go to the local college to look for young men not the high school.
At 17 years old these boys were not children. They knew right from wrong and knew that having sex with their teacher was wrong. They may have been taken advantage of but most teenage boys will jump at the chance to have sex whether its right or not.
Should the teachers be punished? Definitely! Having sex with a 17 year old is illegal, but these women are not child molestors. There is a big difference between having consenual sex with a 17 year old and molesting a child. These women are not predators, they’re just STUPID!!
ok i went to Jay and Ashley Burkett (Diamond) it ws a shock to me. I never thought she would have done this she always thought she was better than everyone but look at her now
Judy,
As was posted one of these women is a devout CHRISTIAN! So how on earth would church in school have prevented this from happening. How many kids have been molested by men and women of the church. MILLIONS! Beleive it or not church is not the answer, it is the problem. Religion or one’s particuliar beliefs in said religion is the cause of 90% of wars. The belief that I am holier than thou is the route of all evil. Get a clue people. Read your bible people. It is full of sex, murder, sodomy, pedofile type behavior, drinking alcohol, smoking weed, you name it, it is all there. Where do you think people get their ideas to do these things from.
if justice is served, they will NEVER be teachers again and will never subject another kid to this
Maybe these teachers were also sex education teachers……Doing a little free tutoring.
im not from jay or the northwestescambia area, although i have lived here over 10 years…..however, many years ago, my young children and i found ourselves in the same position as the families of these 2 young women….scandelous articles in the newspapers, much embarrassment for our family in our church, neighborhood and community…the “victim” was never the same, as well as my children……from my personal perspective, i would encourage members of the jay community to be especially cognizant of the emotional trauma that the family, husbands and children are, and will be, going through now, and for many years to come…to me, it doesnt matter whether the young 17 yr old boys/students enjoyed their sexual escapade w/the “teachers”, or even initiated it…..by LAW, they are the “victims”…..the teachers were in a “position of authority” over the students…..the “legal” responsibility for the incident(s) is owned soley by the teachers (and, ANY other prinicple, teacher or counselor that knew about this)….THE END…..these young men will not always be 17 and, i do believe that hopefully, someday, they will view this entire ordeal w/a more mature, adult perspective….they will always have the knowledge of exactly what part that they played in this situation, as well as dealing w/the knowledge of the MANY lives that have consequently been affected by the actions of ALL involved…**of note: the teachers, if convicted, will not have the legal label of “pedophile” (doesnt qualify) as someone mentioned…but, rather of “sexual offender”….AND, of secondary note: unfortuately, as badly as it is needed, we cannot have “God” back in our schools, due to the liberal entity of the ACLU!….that particular group is a major player in the slow destruction of our schools, community and country…..just remember, “evil triumphs when good men do nothing”…VOTE!!…and, lastly, of note: in my opinion, there needs to be an OUTSIDE “watchdog” authority that totally turns that school upside down (administrator/principle/teachers included) and gets rid of that “good ole boy”, “same ole, same ole” and “thats just the way they do it here” mentality…by the previous comments submitted, many “people” were aware of this ongoing (2yrs) immoral behavior, or at the very least, had heard rumors of such….as bad as this seems to be, right now, for the school and community, this could very well be a monumental turning point for the better…(blessing in disguise)….a fresh start w/no more secrets, no more turning and looking the other way, no more ambivalence to “wrongdoings” AND, an educational experience in life, for the students (the student body should recieve some degree of counseling, as well)…..its time that the jay community (parents, students, teachers, administrators, citizens) take ownership of this situation now and strive to correct the correctable…for the very sake of the whole town
It seems that everyone just wants to cast stones at Watson and Burkett and yet I am sure YOU all have skeletons in your closet too. Instead, of sitting here writing all the rude comments that you all are writing why not leave the situation up to God and do something more productive with your time. Just leave it alone it is so hard on the families already they do not need you on here writing all this BS . If you all think Jay schools and the town needs some attention well spend your time cleaning it up not on here bashing theses 2 ladies. I know one of the ladies very well and she is a devout Christian, genuine, caring mother and wife who has giving a lot back to the community herself. So why not take into consideration you may know someone very close to you that this could of very well been them or you. I know it’s very hard on the families, husbands and kids just keep all your bad comments to yourselves and GOD will handle this situation not YOU.
I have teenage boys that have had these ladies for teachers. Frankly, I am disgusted by the actions of these two teachers. Teachers are to be leaders and set examples for children to go by. Regardless of the consent of these boys, these 2 ladies knew this was inappropriate. If my sons were involved I would push to make sure these ladies received the maximum punishment. I only hope the legal system serves them the punishment they deserve. My sympathies also go out to their husbands and children. Jay School may not be perfect, but compared to most schools it has always been a preferred place to attend. I do agree that the good ole boy system is, and always has been in play. It also hope that if the administration was aware of this situation and did not report it that they are also held responsible.
score 2 points for Spelling? pointing out John’s grammatical error.
John, It seems this is more of a nationwide problem than just a FL problem, and it’s a sad situation all the way around. But I can say this is nothing new that has cropped up in the last few years. It’s been going on for a very long time, it was just too taboo to bring to light years ago……and………there is no such term as “should of”……it’s “should have”….. (since you’re telling Jay citizens they can’t spell).
Amen to what John said about people from Jay can’t spell – I had to go to Beka Books at Pensacola Christian just to teach my children how to write in cursive at Jay School; then when they get to high school the teachers will not allow them to write in cursive – what’s up with that???
The teachers at Jay, including the two above are not concerned about our children’s education in the least; I just wished I would have removed my kids from this school a long time ago. I just thought I was protecting them from being exposed to sexual crimes, drugs, etc…BOY WAS I EVER SOOOOO WRONG!!!!!!!
I am so sick of everyone in this town thinking that Jay should be an exception to all the rules!! I currently have children at Jay High & there is much more of this kind of stuff that goes on here than people thinks. All the parties that occur with drinking, and God only knows what else, but everyone turns a blind eye to all the wrong (even upper administration at Jay High School). So sad for the children of these mothers.
These young men aren’t victims. The weren’t taken advantage of…in fact, they probably felt like they were taking advantage of the teachers.
I’ve learned two things reading all of this:
A couple of female teachers at Jay High School are child predators.
People from Jay cannot spell.
Seems to me those teachers should of spent more time teaching than they did on thier backs.
Just saying….
Welcome to Florida!
I can’t believe that this happened! I had heard about it a while back and I am glad that something is finally being done. I think that the teachers should have acted their age, showing better judgement and leadership instead of trying to act like teenagers walking around school like they are better that everyone. I think that the boys are worng too. They knew what they were doing was wrong, but they could not be expected to be the adult in the situation. I hope that these teachers are punished and are not shown any partial treatment. Also if school personnel knew about this and did nothing, they should also be punished as well considering that this happened 2 years ago. I feel so bad and pray for their famiiles, especially for their children and husbands.
I’m not a resident, nor do I have any ties with Jay, FL. But after reading the posts on here, it’s become clear that the whole town is quite upset about this, and rightfully so. IMO, these boys might have been physically mature, but of course they aren’t emotionally mature. And yes, with raging harmones how many 16-17 year old boys would turn down an opportunity to have sex. . .not many!!
Of course these women should have known better and kept this from happening, but they didn’t and now they need to pay the consequences for their actions. But there have been numerous comments about this not being “out of the norm” for the school in Jay. If this is the case, and you all want Jay to clean up the school, then why isn’t someone coming forward and naming others who have done the same thing? It doesn’t matter if it was hidden under the rug or these teachers have been moved to other schools; if the fact remains that they did the crime, then why keep quiet about it?? And if you don’t want to go to the school board or the principal, then by all means take the facts to the DA’s office and file charges!!
I mean, if you all think the administration of the school is crooked and allowing this activity to continue, then get in there and fight for your kids, the school, and the community!
Lets cut to the chase. What they did to minor children is inexcusable, and cant be diminished in any way. That being said, one of these victims has made it clear he wants to be treated like an adult. Posting pictures of himself on Myspace drinking, bragging about being drunk at football practice, smoking, chasing every girl in town…..the list could go on and on……if this happened two years ago, I dont see why the grandparents of this young man waited so long to make this public. Lets dont kid ourselves, this has been common knowledge since it happened Why didnt a parent or grandparent know these kids were at a teachers house? Why didnt someone know they were coming home after drinking? One more thing, I have to wonder why teachers (and I know that all teachers dont do this) allow themselves to have personal relationships with students. Dont have their cell number, dont text message kids, dont sit in your class and eat lunch with a student……TREAT THEM AS STUDENTS AND NOT AS FRIENDS
Man they jealousy is flowing freely from the over-the-hill plus size women on this forum. It is like we are in high school again. Just because these ladies are young, fit and pretty is no excuse to spew such hate.
The only victims are their husbands and children because they obviously did not honor their wedding vows if they are actually married. Other than that, where is the damage. They were all willing participants. A 17 year old boy is fully aware and in control of his body and knows full well what he is doing.
Any normal red-blooded dad would be high-fiving their sons over this situation.
As a Jay native this is wrong no matter how you slice it. We all also know it is more of who you are in Jay than what you did. The women should not be allowed to teach ever again. What they did violated the trust of not only the students but also the parents. As a parent school should be the one place that this should never happen. They were the adults and married also. They made the illegal decisions now they will have to pay the consequences. Well that’s life. This is wrong and should be dealt with in that manner. Wrong is wrong no matter who you are.
As someone who graduated from Jay, I would like to request that everyone who has no concept of punctuation or grammar please refrain from posting comments or at the very least use another town in your username. After reading through all of these “enlightening” thoughts on the arrests, I’m not sure which is more embarassing……the actual arrests or the writings of alleged Jay residents. Come on people….you can NOT write a 10 sentence paragraph and not use ONE period!!! Also, that computer you are using to broadcast your intelligence to everyone in the world actually has something called spell check on it…..USE IT.
Ok everyone just needs to pray for everyone involved, and pray that the other teachers get caught soon enough. But I think they should get fired and then just move on to the next big rumor that Jay has to offer.
This is exactly the point I try and make.
About 95 % of all child sex abuse occurs IN THE HOME! A fact that we still don’t want to admit.
Now if you separate the following from those the approximately 700,000 registered sex offenders.
1. Who did not know their victim.
2. The VIOLENT rapist.
3. the REPEAT offender
we would have a recidivist rate of about 1%. OR LESS!
The TRUTH of the matter is that children are safer walking down the street than living in their own homes!
The REAL danger is incest and friends of the family. Those known to the family, doctors, dentist, teachers, etc.
Study the FACTS and you will be a better parent for it. There are enough laws on the books to deal with an offender, should they commit a second offense. We do NOT have to punish the entire community for individual repeat acts of a few.
STUDY’S
http://tinyurl.com/ns36qu
see News Clip
Do residency restrictions for sex offenders work?
http://media.49abcnews.com/video/2008/05/19/sxoffenders.mov
Ok former Jay student..keep your nose out of our business(STAY OFF HERE)..looks like it became OUR business when it HIT THE NEWS..NEWS FLASH!! HELLO! I have 2 children ( boys) ages 16 & 17…this is sick! so it is MY BUSINESS & EVERYONE ELSE WHO HAS CHILDREN..IF WE KEEP QUITE IT WILL CONTINUE….
That’s the problem..they thought they were “pretty” & could get any boy they want & get away with it..that’s what’s wrong with Jay school now..sweep it under the rug & forget it cause we are family,(bull)The one on the left, had her nose in the air when you saw her..huh! shame shame..I feel for the children & that’s it..You reap what you sew! YOU DO THE CRIME..DO THE TIME..SET BEHIND BARS LIKE THE REST! sick, sick ,sick!
Finally after 2 years..they are arrested & booked..I’ve been waiting & whoever turned the letter in ….KUDOS!
Please do not demonize the criminal’s parents. These were adults and know right from wrong. And I say, let the investigation begin sweeping through the whole system. I don’t think these were the only 2 doing such things…
Everyone has their own opinion. But also Everyone should keep their nose out of everyones business. Im sure the boys enjoyed every minute and for it to take two years to come out, well apparantly the boys were happy with their actions. Yes it is wrong for someone of authority to have sex with minors but they consented to do so. Just pray for the families and try to move on. Next week Im sure another rumor will take the place of this one.
You know..I recall Burkett teaching my son..& practically calling him”stupid” hmmm…WHO’s the stupid one now missy?(YOU)..he’s an A-B student & is on his way to a well respected college, & he’s keeping God in his life..we will be praying for you & your family. Let’s clean out some more Jay teachers…bring out there past & present..They shun people like there”IT”..& every teacher at Jay went to Jay & graduated from Jay..so it’s just a CLICKY TOWN! I’m holding my head up high even though I’m a sinner & ask for forgiveness..I have better sence than to sleep with underage children….
Jayboy all I am saying is that maybe the dicipline should have started when these teachers were younger. Maybe if they had been taught right from wrong and not handed everything on a silver platter…… maybe they wouldn’t think they could have anything they want…… like young boys. No, you can’t paddle the teachers, but I bet there are some folks (Mothers) out there right now that would like to see them two Whipped!!!!!
These female pedophiles should be sent to prison for a long time. They are pretty – but not too pretty to sit behind bars.
I guess high school has changed quite a bit since i was in it. in the old days it was rare to hear of girls your own age that were willing to have sex, let alone older girls or teachers! this is a very different world from when I was in school. I don’t understand why people do what they do.
Why hasn”t the school board checked this out years ago instead of puting teachers I hope the state does something about this. If something had of been done years ago this could have been prevented, The children and husbands of these teachers are hurt enough. Jay should pull together and help them get thru this, the children can not help what their moms has did. They are going to love ttheir mom no matter what.If the children are young what will moving out of Jay do for these children come on. How can you turn your back on these husbands and young children that is wrong. You should teach your children to not make fun and point fingers at these young kids love them and help them get thru. The boys that did this are probally not happy now. I can see they though it was great a year or two ago .I know how young boys think at that age, I have 4 boys and I feel that they would not have turned the teacher down I know what they are thinking about at that age. That is why the teachers should be punished .
i had both of those teachers the same year to.you dont really expect it to happenso close to where i live.by the way they were both married and both had wonderful kidds nobody can say for sure what made them do it but thats the way life is its ful of all sorts of un expected surprises things u would have never in a million years thought would have happened but they picked the worst town to get caught in anyone who lives in jay knows how it works
I really do feel bad for their children and husbands(if they are both married) this has to be very embarrassing for them. They didn’t have any respect for themselves or husbands. They are not setting a very good example for these students. I just think they are grown women who should not be messing around with CHILDREN, but maybe they should have spent a little more time with their husbands. It’s just stupid. Even if the boys threw themselves at the teachers they should have been smart enough to say NO. They are suppose to be the Adults!
i went to school with the boys an was friends with them everyone knew about this o its a big shock no this is not the only time a teacher at jay has had sex with a “minor” 17 years old is not a minor a minor is a 14 of 15 year old kid this was only a few months away from being an affair rather than a crime this happens everywhere not just jay all over the country if a young attractive teacher has any relationship with a student outside of school what do you really think is going to happen how about we start thinking about getting people jobs than taking them away for a mistake
i hope they are punished to the fullest exstent for the crimes they committed
this is to nwe reader what would bringing back the paddle do for the teachers there adults.do u really think paddling teachers is gonna change anything,this incident happened back in 2007 there would be nothing that anyone couldve done to stop this
This is happening all over the country. Go to http://www.schoolteachernews.com and click on the Scandal page. This year they have documented over 300 of these types of incidents. In 2008 they found 478 of these kinds of cases.
YES! bring GOD back. and while we are at it bring the PADDLE back there are alot of changes that need to be made in our schools everywhere!. I don’t have the words for people who will not alow their children to disiplined. See what happens when there is no disipline…. teachers running around acting like teenagers texting on thier Cell phones talking to the young boys…. enticing them . Just saying if some of them would of had their butts tore up they might not have thought it would be ok to seduce under age children. And they wouldn’t be getting away with some of the other craziness that goes on.
i think that this is a sad situation.. but i understand everyone is focused on watson and burkett but people have posted that the KNOW of other cases.. so why arent those names being said? i think its unfair that just those 2 are getting caught when other people out there could probably tell you names of other people who have done this. and i dont go to jay but ive been there enough and hung and wit people from their enough to know that when the boys had sex wit the teachers that its wat they wanted and i do NOT consider them the victim in the situation. my heart goes out to watsons and burketts families.
knowing one of the women involved and her husband it brakes my heart . How does he feel about all this and now what will they tell their little boy and girl. this got tobe the hardest thing for a marriage and the kids. You know you jusr never know about people especially those that walk around like thier stuff doesn’t stink.
Thanks to whoever sent the letter in..I want to personally shake your hand & kiss you on the cheek! finally they got caught! heck it’s Jay for God’s sake..everybody knew what had been going on for 2 years……They want walk around with there heads up there butt now like there so much better than everybody else!
I may be a sinner..but I have more since than too sleep with an underage child!
ok. the teachers are wrong for doing this, but the “Boys” that are the so called victims really anit. ok im from jay and you know that rumors about who the boys are are starting to circle. and i believe them because the names that people are saying these boys use to set around and talk about what they did with these teacher. they all thought it was cool. everyone of these boys have a good head on there shoulders and they know what they were doing and none of them were young miner they were like 17 and at 17 u can make your own mind up. and it took then like 2 years for anything to happen with it. i bet u that one of the boys wanted more and they wouldnt give it and that guy got mad and are now trying to get back at the teachers.
FRIEND OF THE ACCUSED stated….How come it took 2 years for anyone to come forward????? Everyone makes mistakes and I can guarantee that these “boys” were not victims. Give me a break! I bet that one of you posting on here is one of the cowards who sent the letter to the school board.
1st: You didn’t even post your name, yet call names!
2nd: Yes, everyone makes mistakes, but both Burke & Watson are in their early thirties. How is having sex with minors a MISTAKE?
3rd: Why did it take 2 years to come out? Like one person stated Jay is a SMALL community and everyone knows everyone’s business. Heck, you probably knew?
4th: I have lived in Jay for several years now and REFUSE to allow myself to be known on a first name basis. Why? Because of everyone’s mouth. I see it like this….the less everyone knows the less they can talk….Right?
5th: I have to agree with the other person who stated they both come across as they THINK they are better than anyone else……I guess it’s time for them to change their way of thinking now…..huh?
6th: Finally, I hope they are punished to the fullest extent of the law allowed and made to register as a sex offender.
7th: The only coward I see is YOU, because you obviously don’t have any children. If you do I pray they don’t turn out with the outlook you have.
My heart goes out to the boys involved and their families. To the person who wrote the letter…..Thank you for caring enough to make our children safe at school!
I feel soooooo sorry for the poor children of these two teachers. And the husbands for that matter…. Please get them out of that town. Unless they get out of that place, they will never live this down….. People will forever point and whisper. Shame on these mothers for doing this to their children.
God Bless and keep them
I think how sad it is that the best we can come up with these days is keeping God and prayer out of the schools when it is sooooooo way obvious that that is the one thing we need so much more of. This sickens and saddens me. The poor husband and children of these women that will suffer the humiliation and never understand why. The great teachers being forced to retire out of the schools so these younger ones can spend there time doing such things with the students (no matter if theboys consented) so that our schools can no longer be “A” schools because there’s more extra curricular activities going on than teaching our children the education they deserve to get. And how much have they taught the cheerleaders or volleyball girls outside of the sport itself. How sad to think this is the role models for our children to learn from. How about we give God and prayer back to the schools and be a little more concerned with whats happening behind the scenes with our teachers and kids………..
Preach on “God”!
Amen
Sounds like the Santa Rosa County School System needs to allow The Gospel to be preached instead of the restrictions that have recently been enforced. If you think this is a coincidence, I’m afraid you’re sadly mistaken.
Take God out & Satan will likely come in. The enemy is trying to get to our children through school, one of the places they spend the most time.
And by the way, 16 & 17 year old boys ARE still “children”—they’re not adults, legally or mentally.
Jay has always had alot of stuff hidden behind the stuck up attitudes. God only knows what I could tell about my teenage years 19 years ago. Some people would definitely not be walking around free.
Teachers are to be examples to students. They are taught in college to uphold morals and to teach children. Sick to say, but most young boys get crushes on cute teachers, and they will have sex with a girl or teacher if they can. Of course there are alot of young male students who are raised right and would not have sex with a teacher. Not saying these boys were not raised right! They could have been. Their harmones are going wild at that age. WRONG for them to do that, but the teachers knew this, and they should have been the strong ones. Why didn’t they repremand the boys? When I was a substitute teacher and the boys flirted with me, I did not tolerate it! I put them in their place. It took about twice embarrasing them when they commented in class outloud, to stop thier comments. The word got around that I wouldn’t tolerate those comments. I never had a problem again. These women could have stopped flirty comments! They WANTED to do what they did. Tells their character. Child molesters. Of course had it been one of the male teachers in the area, like one comment said, they would be promoted in our county!!!!!!!!! I could name about 6 men I know of that has had sex with girl students and they continued to teach and like some said in a previous comment were promoted!!!! Doesn’t this teach our children that it is ok? Get some guts……….superintendent, put them out. Fire them. Show the students we are still a moral community. Don’t fear what will happen to you….do the right thing!
I think u can totally call the boys victims. Tell me this how is a 16-17 year old boy supposed to resist having relations with a teacher? Just like Jon said it is a fantasy.
jay local apparently they wasnt worried about their family and kids when they was doing this.this is still no shocker.
To Jay Local. I don’t see you posting you name so what does that make you?
I guess they weren’t think about there family while they were doing it.
Yes, if these teachers (women) did this, which I read admitted they did, it is very sick and they should get time for it. They knew better! So did the boys! I doubt it was rape. What is this world coming to? The morals of many people are non existant! Thier poor children will have to live with this forever. Their poor husbands. I heard about this a year ago, from a students mother who went to be home schooled and this student confronted one of the teachers when asked why she quit Jay High. She said because so many of the teachers are having sex with the students. Good for you, student! All of you tell on the ones doing this. Don’t keep it quiet. You do the moral thing and God will protect and bless you. School board, and Tim Wyrosdick, you are good people! Do the right thing, and please clean up our schools. We voted for you because we had the faith that you would do the right thing. I realize you can do nothing without a conviction, but you can start weeding out the teachers who are crooked and immoral. There are some in this county. Most of our teachers are wonderful though! Get the immoral ones out so our students will be safe and can be taught well. Stop the “you scratch my back and I will scratch yours”. Why are people so afraid of what others think of them? It will take each of us to do the right thing to uphold the morals of our area. I pray for all and that these ladies will turn and not do such a thing again and take their punishment if they really did this, which they admitted they did. They have a rough road to travel. Their reputation is ruined. They can get it back if they are humble and God can help them. I pray for these families. People make mistakes, but sex with children. Turns my stomach!
well having gone to school with one of these teachers, I’ll say, that she’s always had a “better than you attitude”. I’m sure if the roles were reversed she’d be talking mess about me right now!!!
Again, I say……there is a BIG difference between being 16-17 yrs old and 31-33.
It is clear here who is in the wrong….. I guess next they’ll say they were in “love”.
All of you cowrads make me sick you hide behind your computers and talk crap about people you don’t know and a situation you all know nothing about and jay guy what and idiot you appear to be these people have familys and children just like the rest of us and just like everyother human we all make mistakes and we all have poor judgement at times so those of you who like to point fingers remeber this its easier to a finger at somone else and not your self.
Okay I get that it’s wrong to sleep with underaged children but “victims” is not the right word to use for the boys who had sexual relations with the teachers. If the boys did not want to do it they did not have to.
Sad thing is that this was suspected by many and I’m sure some Jay personnel know of it and swept it under the rug. The investigation should not stop with these two. It is law that if any school official suspects abuse that it be reported to the authorities. It’s good that it’s out now, but I wonder how many in the school knew and never reported it. Where’s the integrity of old??
Bully, I totally agree with you! I heard this rumor last year. What can you expect when these teachers act like teenagers themselves. Jay high needs change starting with the principal. And yes, husbands and kids how would they feel if this happen to them. What happen to teachers being role models for kids? And come on they admitted to it. They arent those good ole I am better than you women they appear to be. You think you know people but never really do. And wow one of them WAS the Varsity Cheer Sponsor. And as the old saying goes what goes around comes around. And where their is smoke their is fire.
I can’t believe that some here are comparing the judgement of a 16 year old boy to that of these teachers…… Clearly the two women should’ve know better.
Having attend JHS, with Mrs. Burkett, I can say I’m shocked, and sadden. Her father was my teacher there….I feel for all of their famlies.
I know that this is not the first time that something of this sort has happen at JHS…… former admin. just hid it better.
God bless all involved. Bit of advice……Move far, far, away, or you’ll never move past it!
I know one the women also. Can’t believe it! If it was my son I would be furious! These teachers are adults with small children. I don’t care if the boys did want this……. they should have never even been put in this situation.
I go to jay and know all about this it is completly true. They need to suffer the consequenses . I wAs going to have April Watson as a math teacher this year. It’s all true .
This is completly true I know all about it and it’s all true I go to jay and was going to have April Watson as a math teacher this upcoming year.
I don’t feel bad for the women but how could the teens resist, I know because I once was one and every teen boy dreams of being with an older women but these women should have known better. I feel bad for the families and the boys.
I do believe what comes around..goes around! It’s SAD how they walk around pertending to be innocent & telling family members & friends including ME! that they are innocent..then they ADMIT IT! I’M TICKED..HOW AWFUL! Jay has always brushed this under the rug & sent the teacher off to another school like pace or milton..trust me I know I watched 3 teachers leave that school after having sex with UNDERAGE KIDS & the school did NOTHING but ship them teachers off.!!!!!!!!! IT’S ABOUT TIME! BOOK UM BOYS! make um pay..yehawww! justice!
The Burkett lady looks concerned in her pic the Watson lady looks like she could care less this is so sad……… yes they knew better the 1st time a teen age boy started flirting with them they should of reported that child right then i know the Burkett ladys in laws and they are very very good people why would she hurt these good folks she needs alot of help!!!!! they both need help
If it was a party. What about under age drinking charges.
Everyone at Jay had known this was going on, kinda funny. most people can even name some of the “boys”.
I just graduated from Jay, but never had these teachers.
But in all seriousness, I feel bad for these ladys kids. If they stay in jay they will be made fun of for the rest of there life.
We you’re from a well known family in a small town some things are brushed under the rag. Just this time someone picked up the rag and found a big pile of dirt.
Were the administrators at the school aware of this before now? Had any of the concerned parents discussed it with them? Will they be held accountable, if it had been brought to their attention before now? Anyone who had even suspected it should have reported it as soon as they found out about it. Teachers are bound by law to report such suspicions as child abuse.
Mistake are not. It shouldn’t of happened. I didn’t send the letter but I’m glad someone did.
Law says the boys aren’t guilty.
How come it took 2 years for anyone to come forward????? Everyone makes mistakes and I can guarantee that these “boys” were not victims. Give me a break! I bet that one of you posting on here is one of the cowards who sent the letter to the school board.
Forget about the stupid, child molesting teachers, I feel so sorry for the children of these women. And especially for one of the teachers husband. Jay is so small this will haunt the husband and children forever. My heart goes out to the family.
This may all be true and unexceptable and I agree it’s not right for the teachers to do such but the boys knew better also. Let’s not forget they are guilty also. They were not held down and raped in this issue.
I guess schools are just like any other place (not always safe) we sure can be fooled by what we think of a person, and what they turn out to be. No wonder some people choose to home school their children. It is a sad situation, and I would be so embarassed if it was me.
This was every high school boys dream. As to why they wanted “young boys”—-how many older men have you seen chasing after young women?
It makes me wonder why my child performed poorly on FCAT after having both of these teachers in the past.
that is so sick that two teacher have to go to little boys. yes they are married and yes they do have children. my god. you women need to grow up. thats gross!
Yes both married & children.
I’m sure they weren’t forced to but their still teachers. If it was a male teacher and female student people would look at it differently. But a teacher still should know better.
Are these teachers married and do they have children? If so, I hope the father takes the kids as far away from them as possible.
Honestly when I heard the rumor last year. I thought it could be true. Because if you really no the past of the one. You know how something like that could happen.
I know all of these young men and I”m certain that they were not forced to do anything that they themselves did not want to do.
People who leave in GLASS houses should not through STONES.
I’ve know one of the suspects all our lives and this is totally unbelievable. You just never know about people. That’s why one should never assume or judge. For every person out there you would never expect any bad from that does something like this, there is a person you think badly of that may be a very good person. Still, it’s CRAZY! I didn’t believe it until I read here that the suspects admitted it. My word.
Yea I bet you would be casting stones if it was your kids.
I believe just as the Bible says let who is without sin cast the first stone.
Why would two older women want to have sexual relations with male teenagers!!! This is crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I don’t think the allegations are BS. I heard the rumor about this earlier last year. But you know how small towns and rumors are. All I can say is teachers should know better.
Jay High is NOT the nice, little sleepy school that most make it out to be. It needs leadership who is not of the ‘good ole boy’ network and educators who care about a quality education instead of just a job. There a few good ones, but some purging is needed.
Jay Boy your comment shows how little respect and sympathy you have for the alleged male victims of sexual assault compared to how much respect and sympathy you have for alleged female child abusers but their against the alleged victims in this case aren’t your children so what do you care? Perhaps you still wouldn’t care even if one of these alleged sexual assault victims was your child, who knows?
Thats just sick, they were my teachers.
I will never understand what a grown woman would want with a teenage boy!
BS?
“Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity.”
They admitted to it.
I think is complete BS some sick 17-18 year boys are looking for attention and huting people in the process.