Facts: Client received a complaint from TEA after he was terminated by his school district for having inappropriate relations and/or communication with a female student. The student reported to the school that client spoke to her on two occasions about liking her more than he should and knowing that it was wrong.
Outcome: During an informal conference the firm provided evidence of client’s character and argument as to how the student misunderstood what client was trying to advise. Firm argued that client was only trying to direct the student to associate more with her friends and not congregate in front of his classroom so much. Client also admitted that he was too causal with his students and not direct enough with the student at issue during their conversations. This may have caused confusion in his message. Based on the evidence TEA allowed client to keep his license.