Pennsylvania teacher arrested for having a sexual relationship with a teenager and providing marijuana.

A special education teacher has been arrested and charged with engaging in a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old student, while also allegedly providing the teen with marijuana. Michelle Mercogliano, 35, was taken into custody on Monday following an investigation initiated by the Tredyffrin Township Police Department. The authorities received information regarding her alleged conduct on April 30, prompting immediate action to protect students at Conestoga High School, where she was employed.

According to the criminal complaint, the inappropriate relationship between Mercogliano and the teenage student began in February. Reports indicate that the two engaged in sexual encounters approximately twelve times, with many occurring at the student’s home in Malvern, Pennsylvania. In addition to the sexual relationship, Mercogliano is accused of supplying the student with marijuana at least 15 times.

As the investigation progressed, police chief Michael Beaty described Mercogliano’s actions as “shocking and disturbing.” The school district took prompt measures to prevent any further contact between her and students upon receiving reports of the alleged misconduct. Mercogliano, who has been employed in the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District for over ten years, began teaching at Conestoga High School last year. Prior to this role, she worked as a paraprofessional at Hillside and Valley Forge Elementary Schools.

Following her arrest, Mercogliano was charged with multiple offenses, including institutional sexual assault, corruption of minors, and delivery of a controlled substance. She was not immediately taken into custody due to a medical emergency but was later released on a 0,000 cash bail after her arraignment on Monday.

Dr. Richard Gusick, the Superintendent of the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District, confirmed that Mercogliano was placed on administrative leave as soon as the district was informed of the investigation and that she no longer has access to school property. As the district comprises over 7,000 students across eight schools, officials have not disclosed plans to investigate any potential misconduct during her previous positions at the elementary schools.

The events surrounding this case underscore ongoing concerns about student safety and the responsibilities of educators within the school system. The community remains vigilant as the investigation unfolds, with the local educational authorities and law enforcement working in tandem to address this serious matter. While Mercogliano awaits further legal proceedings, the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District is committed to ensuring a safe environment for its students.