OAKLAND PARK, Fla. — A former substitute teacher who worked at Broward County Public Schools through a staffing agency has been arrested on accusations of sexual misconduct involving a student, according to jail records and a statement from a school principal obtained by Local 10 News on Saturday.
The suspect, Marsel Javaris Smith, who was not a direct employee of the district but worked through Kelly Education, was arrested Friday, according to a message sent to parents and families by Anthony Valachovic, the principal of Northeast High School in Oakland Park.
“We are deeply disturbed by the allegations and are working closely with the Broward Sheriff’s Office regarding this matter,” Valachovic wrote in the statement. “The safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priorities.”
Officials said Smith, 27, is no longer permitted to work anywhere within Broward County Public Schools.
Jail records show he is facing charges including sexual battery involving a victim between 16 and 17 years old and engaging in a romantic relationship as an authority figure.
A judge found probable cause during a bond court hearing, and Smith was ordered to have no contact with minors or the alleged victim.
School officials said they could not provide additional details due to the ongoing investigation.
It remains unclear whether Smith worked at additional schools within the district.
As of Saturday evening, he was being held on a $30,000 bond at the Broward County Main Jail.
Smith is scheduled to appear before a judge again Monday.
Local 10 News has requested his arrest report from BSO.
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