The May 2, 2025 notification provided to the Pinellas Preparatory Academy principal of a current faculty member's arrest on federal criminal child exploitation charges followed a 10-month undercover FBI investigation. One which totally blindsided her. Her swift reaction to notify staff, board members, parents, set a face-to-face meeting with parents, and be available all weekend for communication with concerned parents was thorough, as fast as possible, and mindful of the angst felt by parents. Her administration has stated that they are actively pursuing additional proactive measures to protect children amidst the decline in current societal moral standards.
TAMPA BAY, Fla., May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Amidst the shock at learning that one of her faculty had been arrested by the FBI on federal criminal charges of child exploitation, Pinellas Preparatory Academy Principal Jessica Hill knew instinctively that she had to clear the air regarding the 10-month gap of information from the FBI. "On one hand I was relieved that the FBI stated there was no evidence to indicate any students in my school were involved in this case.(1,2) On the other hand, I have empathy for the fear and angst parents of the students in my school felt at learning of this story through my communication with them, as it is understandable," recounted Hill.
The point under scrutiny by parents was the question "how did this man qualify to be a teacher in Pinellas County?" Hill points out that Pinellas Preparatory Academy (PPA) is a charter school in the Pinellas County School system and they comply with all policies and processes. She noted that Mr. Hughes successfully passed the Level II background check and was fingerprinted. "Unless a faculty candidate has a prior criminal record, we don't know the propensity they may have for dangerous child exploitation," notes Hill. The administration was as shocked as the parents and board members in learning of Mr. Hughes' actions. Julie Meyers, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the academy noted "in short, PPA had no indication that there was anything in Mr. Hughes' background or an investigation into any current activity by Mr. Hughes that endangered the safety of students at PPA."
To that end, Principal Hill pointed to recent changes in Florida education in which districts can now share background check results for employees and contract staff. While the fingerprint clearinghouse can strengthen the process of preventing those with criminal records from being in the system, its efficacy is not yet known. Hill says, "I'm always glad to see changes in policy aimed at enhancing the safety of students and the public."
Hill has pointed out that the FBI understands the effect the lengthy undercover investigation had on her administration. "The FBI agent in charge offered to bring a canine trained to detect electronics to sweep the classroom and bathrooms, which would provide reassurance to the parents." It was completed and nothing was found.
When asked if she would handle any hiring protocol differently Hill stated that no, she would not. "If the FBI were to offer training to staff on identifying subtle behavioral red flags, that would be helpful, but not foolproof. My administration is, of course, open to any new information, process, or training that can made a change for the future."
Under the circumstances provided to her within the timeframe she was notified after a 10-month undercover investigation, Principal Jessica Hill reflects "I was glad I was able to quickly in a 3-hour period mount a communication plan to notify my board of directors, faculty and staff, parents, set a face-to-face parent meeting and make myself available through that tough weekend when the news broke."
"I will do everything in my power as Principal to ensure the welfare, education, and safety of every child, faculty member and staff in my school. This extends as well to the parents and guardians, as they all comprise our extended family."
The Pinellas Prep Academy administration stated that they are actively pursuing additional proactive measures to protect children amidst the decline in current societal moral standards.
About the Pinellas Preparatory Academy
Pinellas Preparatory Academy (PPA) isn't your average public school—it's a tuition-free, innovation-first learning hub for K–8 students in Largo, Florida, reimagining what modern education should look like. Founded in 2002, Pinellas Preparatory Academy redefines traditional models with an immersive, whole-child approach that blends rigorous academics, social-emotional learning, and real-world problem-solving. With small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a culture that nurtures curiosity and character, the academy prepares students not just to pass tests, but to think critically, lead boldly, and thrive in a fast-changing world. From cross-curricular exploration to global citizenship training, this isn't status quo education— it's future-proof learning. For more information visit: https://pinellasprep.org/
Sources:
1. Parker, Marilyn. "Pinellas Teacher Accused of Trying to Coerce 9-year old to Have Sex for 10 Months Before Arrest", WFLA Tampa TV, 01 May 2025, msn.com/en-us/crime/general/pinellas-teacher-accused-of-trying-to-coerce-9-year-old-to-have-sex-for-10-months-before-arrest/ar-AA1Ee2SR.
2. Hirschfield, Steven. "Elementary Teacher Arrested on Federal Charges Involving Child Exploitation", 05 May 2025, iontb.com/elementary-teacher-arrested-on-federal-charges-involving-child-exploitation/.
3. Staff Writer. "Submitting Fingerprints for Certification", Florida Department of Education, April 2025, fldoe.org/teaching/certification/steps-to-certification/step-4-submitting-fingerprints-for-cer.stml#:~:text=Employees%20of%20Public%20Schools,automatically%20forwarded%20to%20Educator%20Certification.
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SOURCE Pinellas Preparatory Academy
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