A 25-year-old Anclote High School instructor has been placed on administrative leave after being arrested for unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
According to the arrest affidavit, Tenisha Dixon contacted the victim, who was a student at the school, via Facebook messenger in early April. Deputies said she gave the victim her phone number and asked him to call her.
Deputies said they met up at a park in New Port Richey where they had sex. According to the report, several more sexual encounters occurred between April and July.
Deputies said Dixon was 24 years old at the time and the victim was 17. Students say it's hard to believe.
"Cuz she's a teacher. Usually at high school you'd want us to succeed since you're a teacher, a counselor and just hearing that from her, especially, it was bad,” said Brittany Formaggini.
Dixon worked as a graduation enhancement instructor helping kids who are at risk of not graduating. She has been with the school district since April 2013.
Students say she coached some girls sports activities and was well-liked.
"She was positive, always had a positive attitude. She liked to smile and joke around. I really didn't look at her like a bad person. I actually looked at her like family,” said Ronisha McLeod.
The school board is expected to vote whether to suspend Dixon without pay at its next meeting on January 20th. A spokeswoman said after that, the superintendent will move to fire her.
Dixon has been released from jail on $10,000 bond.