Mesquite ISD teacher arrested for improper relationship with student
MESQUITE – A 32-year-old Mesquite ISD teacher has been arrested for an improper relationship with a student at Vanguard High School, police said.
The U.S. Marshals Service North Texas Fugitive Task Force arrested Cesar Jimenez of Midlothian on Wednesday, according to the Mesquite Police Department.
Mesquite police learned of the "potentially inappropriate relationship" at the school on Friday, April 5.
Jimenez, who served as a teacher in the school's automotive collision program, has been charged with one count of improper relationship between educator and student, police said.
"Mr. Jimenez' actions are appalling and disturbing and will not be tolerated in Mesquite ISD," Mesquite ISD said in a statement. "As educators, our priority is, first and foremost, the safety and well-being of our students. In partnership with Mesquite police, we acted swiftly to address this matter as quickly as possible, and we appreciate their immediate response and ongoing support. Our focus will now turn toward healing as the staff and students of Vroonland Vanguard High School move forward from this experience."
Mesquite ISD also sent the following statement to Vanguard High families:
"Vroonland Vanguard High School has some troubling and very disappointing information to share with you regarding an educator in our automotive program, Cesar Jimenez. Mesquite police issued a warrant for his arrest today on a felony charge of improper relationship between an educator and a student.
"Upon witnessing inappropriate behavior by Mr. Jimenez toward a Vanguard student, administrators immediately contacted Mesquite police, and they began an investigation. After learning of MISD's concerns and the police investigation yesterday, Mr. Jimenez resigned.
"We know this news may be very upsetting for you, as it is for the entire Vanguard family. Of course, you likely have many questions. Privacy laws limit what we can share with you, but this email includes the facts we can disclose.
"It is important to understand that MISD is not an investigating agency in situations involving possible criminal behavior. MISD was unable to inform you about this situation before tonight due to the ongoing police investigation. As required by law, MISD will report the educator to the State Board for Educator Certification.
"Thank you for your support of Vroonland Vanguard High School. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of your children. As educators, we share your heartbreak and shock about this situation, and we are committed to moving forward with care and support for our students and families. If you believe you have relevant information about this case, please do not hesitate to contact Mesquite police."
Editor's note: This article has been updated to clarify that Jimenez was a teacher in Vanguard High School's automotive collision program.