SOMERDALE, N.J. (WPVI) — A 26-year-old chemistry teacher and coach at Sterling High School was arrested Friday on charges of second-degree sexual assault and second-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
The school district said Jason Howe, of Runnemede, was suspended and banned from school property.
The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office said a student who was at least 16 years old reported having sexual intercourse with Howe at his Runnemede apartment in March.
Students described their reaction as disbelief.
“I was just really shocked,” senior Nick Gallucci said. “Honestly, just pretty sad.”
Senior Nate Schwarz said he knew Howe both in the classroom and on the court.
“He was a great teacher. I liked him as a teacher,” Schwarz said. “He also coached me for freshman year basketball too. I would have never expected him to do this. It was shocking to me when I found out.”
Prosecutors said Howe also coached cross country, girls’ spring track and boys’ basketball.
Some parents said the allegations did not surprise them because there had been issues at the school before.
“There is a culture around Sterling High School,” one parent said. “I don’t want to send my child back to school to be uncomfortable.”
In a statement, the district’s superintendent said officials were shocked by Howe’s arrest and had been unaware of the allegations.
“We will fully cooperate with law enforcement as we remain focused on supporting our students and ensuring a safe learning environment,” the statement said.
The superintendent also emailed families to say guidance counselors would be available to support students.
Parents said they hope the district takes additional steps.
“I’m hoping they take this seriously and do actually look into things and make sure the students feel safe,” one parent said.
The prosecutor’s office is urging anyone with additional allegations to come forward so they can be investigated.
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