Buda, Texas – A math teacher from Hays Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) has been taken into custody following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student. The 40-year-old educator, Juan Gomez, faces charges for this misconduct, which is classified as a second-degree felony in Texas, carrying potential penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
The Kyle Police Department reported that they received information on April 24 regarding an inappropriate interaction involving Gomez and a high school student. In response, Hays CISD immediately removed Gomez from Lehman High School and placed him on administrative leave.
According to district officials, Gomez has been prohibited from returning to the school during the ongoing criminal investigation and any related court proceedings. Furthermore, he is barred from any communication with both students and colleagues while these matters are addressed.
Gomez joined Hays CISD in July 2023 as a math teacher at Lehman High School. The district stated that all employees undergo mandatory fingerprint-based criminal background checks prior to their hiring, in accordance with state law. However, due to employment-based due process rights, immediate termination is not an option for term-contracted teachers like Gomez.
Hays CISD emphasized its commitment to student safety and indicated that it will take all necessary actions to safeguard its students throughout this process.
