HILTON HEAD — A South Carolina high school dance teacher has been suspended and charged following allegations of an ‘inappropriate relationship’ with a student.
Victoria Montgomery, who has taught dance at Hilton Head Island High School since 2021, is accused of sexual battery of a student.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Friday’s charge came after district officials received a tip suggesting an ‘inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student.’
South Carolina high school dance teacher Victoria Montgomery has been charged with sexual battery of a student
Montgomery, 32, was placed on administrative leave two days before the formal accusation.
Authorities believe the student involved is one of Montgomery’s own, but they are working to determine when the relationship began.
No details have been release on the age or grade level, but WSAV reports the student is 18 years old.
The Beaufort County School District has since issued a statement acknowledging the situation.
Montgomery was placed on administrative leave from her role at Hilton Head Island High School two days before the criminal charges were filed
“We have become aware of a situation involving a staff member and student at HHIHS”‘ the statement read.
‘Because this involves both a personnel matter and a law enforcement investigation, we are unable to provide additional details or comment further,’ the district said.
‘The staff member has been placed on administrative leave. We recognize that situations like this can raise concern and we are taking this very seriously. The situation is being addressed accordingly in cooperation with law enforcement.’
District spokesperson Candace Bruder reiterated the district’s position and assured parents that all of Montgomery’s classes will now be covered by certified educators or substitute teachers.
‘Classes taught by this individual will be covered by a certified educator or a substitute teacher and families of students enrolled in these courses will be notified via email,’ she added.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the charge came after district officials received a tip suggesting an ‘inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student. Pictured: Hilton Head High School teacher Ms. Montgomery celebrates her pregnancy
A similar statement was sent directly to parents, notifying them of the situation and assuring them of the district’s cooperation with law enforcement.
‘We recognize that situations like this can raise concern, and we are taking this very seriously. Be assured the situation is being addressed accordingly in cooperation with law enforcement.’
Montgomery previously taught in Flint, Michigan, and worked in education in Indiana before joining Hilton Head Island High, according to WSAV.
Montgomery’s future with the district remains in question.
Depending on the findings of the investigation, she could face disciplinary action up to termination. Her teaching license may also be reviewed by the South Carolina Department of Education.
By SAMANTHA RUTT/Daily Mail
