Florida Assistant Principal Charged with Lewd Conduct Towards Student, Placed on Administrative Leave

A Florida middle school assistant principal has been suspended pending an investigation into claims she made inappropriate remarks and conduct toward a 13-year-old male student, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Florida School Administrator Faces Charges

The assistant principal, Dr. Keiva Lark, aged 53 and employed at Lake Marion Creek Middle School in Poinciana, was reportedly placed on leave after being accused of making lewd comments and engaging in lewd conduct with the student.

The 13-year-old student, who was referred to Lark's office after disrupting a test, alleged that she instructed him to rub her feet, despite her inappropriate comments. Two witnesses corroborated the student's account.

Dr. Keiva Lark now faces charges of lewd/lascivious conduct and lewd offense against a student by an authority figure. The principal's report to the sheriff's office on April 4 initiated the legal proceedings against Lark.

Inappropriate Comments and Behavior

One of the more troubling allegations is that Lark purportedly told the student to "rub her feet like he loved her" and made inappropriate comments about foreplay. Additionally, the student claimed that Lark had referred to him as "Sexy Chocolate."

Administrative Leave, School Board, and Superintendent's Response

As a consequence of the allegations, Lark has been placed on administrative leave. The Polk County School Board and the Florida Department of Children and Families have been informed of the situation, and Lark's behavior prompted strong disapproval from Sheriff Grady Judd and Superintendent Frederick Heid.

Impact on Victims and School Community

The impact on the victim and the school community at large is significant. Issues of trust and safety within the educational environment have been called into question. Such incidents can have lasting effects on both the individual involved and the broader school community.

The allegations against Dr. Keiva Lark raise broader implications about the behaviors and actions of individuals in positions of authority within educational settings. Such incidents can erode trust and impact the reputation of educational institutions.

Next Steps and Ongoing Investigation

The legal and administrative proceedings are ongoing, and Lark's future within the educational system remains uncertain. The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps, including any potential legal consequences and further measures from the school district.

The public and community response to these allegations has been one of shock and concern. Instances of inappropriate behavior in educational settings evoke strong reactions from the community, underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of students.