Teacher in Petah Tikva Charged with Sexual Misconduct Against Student While Continuing to Teach

Earlier this month, a teacher at an elementary school in Petah Tikva was formally charged with indecent acts involving a 13-year-old female student he previously taught and coached. The indictment alleges that the teacher exploited his authority to send sexual images and engage in sexual contact with the minor during multiple encounters. The case came to light after a social media post revealed that the accused continued working as a physical education teacher and homeroom educator despite a complaint filed against him in 2022.

The Ministry of Education stated that alongside the criminal proceedings, a disciplinary process was initiated and all possible legal steps were considered. Following the indictment, the case was transferred to the Civil Service Commission for further handling. The Commission explained that since the teacher was not employed by the Ministry at the investigation's start, they lacked authority to suspend him initially. Upon his re-employment, the Commission requested a suspension recommendation from the Attorney General and is awaiting updated guidance to proceed before the new school year begins after summer vacation.