ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) – Rockingham County Public Schools have responded after a former teacher was arrested for alleged sex crimes against an underage student.
John Rose IV, a Bedford County resident and teacher in Bedford County Public Schools, was arrested Friday in Rockingham County. He was previously employed at Elkton Middle School, where he taught eighth-grade social studies and worked as a physical education coach.
The Elkton Middle School Facebook page said Rose was the seventh-grade boys basketball coach. Dr. Larry Shifflett, superintendent of Rockingham County Public Schools, responded to Rose’s arrest on Monday.
“We are deeply saddened by this alleged crime. The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority and we take these allegations very seriously. We have fully cooperated with law enforcement in their investigation,” Shifflett said. “We are limited in what we can share as we must follow due process to determine guilt or innocence. Our goal is to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for all of our students. We will continue to work diligently to ensure our schools remain a safe place where students can succeed.”
Rose is due in Bedford County Court for a bail hearing on Friday, August 23. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November.
When asked for comment, Rockingham County Sheriff Brian Hutchinson said the investigation is still active and ongoing.
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