A 53-year-old teaching assistant at Tammany High School in Idaho is facing serious legal consequences after being accused of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a teenage student.
Mary Strong, who worked as a staffer at the school, has been charged with sexual battery involving a minor following allegations that she sent explicit photos and videos to the student via Snapchat and was recorded having sex with him on campus.
The shocking allegations came to light after a school official reported the incident on Valentine’s Day. According to court documents, Strong allegedly claimed she was too intoxicated to remember the encounter. However, investigators say evidence, including surveillance footage, contradicts her claims.
During her initial court appearance on Tuesday, Nez Perce County Judge Victoria Olds set Strong’s bond at $100,000, calling it a “very reasonable request” given the severity of the charges and the details outlined in the affidavit of probable cause. Strong now faces the possibility of significant prison time if convicted.
In response to the allegations, Tammany High School Principal Greg Kramasz sent a letter to the school community, stressing the administration’s commitment to student safety.
“The safety and well-being of our students are of the utmost importance,” Kramasz wrote. “We take these allegations extremely seriously, and I want to assure you that every step has been taken to support the investigation and maintain a safe environment for all students at Tammany High.”
The case has sent shockwaves through the small Idaho community, raising concerns about school safety and the responsibility of staff to maintain professional boundaries with students.
Strong’s arrest underscores the legal and ethical ramifications of such relationships, particularly when they involve minors.
As the investigation continues, the Tammany High School community is left grappling with the fallout, while Strong awaits her next court appearance.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in protecting vulnerable students from exploitation.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
