A 36-year-old woman who teaches at Streetsville Secondary School has been charged with sexually assaulting one of her female students.
The woman, who teaches French and other subjects, is suspended from the job after Peel Regional Police took her into custody this week.
A source close to the case said last night the alleged victim is a 17-year-old girl.
The female student alleges she began chatting online and exchanging emails with a woman on several occasions this month.
Peel Const. Pete Brandwood said the emails contained "sexually-explicit content."
The computer exchanges also resulted in the student meeting a woman who she claims sexually assaulted her.
Peel Police investigated the allegations and made an arrest.
Charged with sexual exploitation and sexual assault is 36-year-old Leslie Merlino of Mississauga. She has been released from custody and will appear in court again Nov. 20. Merlino also must abide by a number of strict conditions while awaiting her court appearance.
She refused comment when contacted last night.
Students at the school were shocked to hear of the arrest yesterday after school principal Brian Landriault informed parents via a letter sent home with students.
"We have assisted the police in their investigation and will continue to do so," the letter said. "As principal of the school, I want you to know that I take the safety and well-being of every student very seriously. We have policies and clear procedures to make sure that students learn in a safe, secure environment. I know that it is important to you, as parents, to feel confident that your children are well cared for and protected while they are at school."
Meanwhile, students have lauded Merlino on a website that allows students to post their opinions about their teachers.
"She's a totally cool teacher, so funny, and her classes are fun," said one student.
Another student of Merlino described her as "extremely nice...generous with marks and makes people willing to try to participate. Seems to really like to teach."
Source
Wow, this is my old high school. Two females at that, makes the story even more intruiging. I'd really like to see a picture of the teacher though, I work in Streetsville and drive past the school almost every day so might recognize her if I saw her.
Does anyone know what the referenced forum is in the article? I couldnt find it, i'd like to check that out as well.