Court records say the teacher called the student into his classroom, and then attacked her. It allegedly happened at Roberson Middle School in north Harris County.
Andre Levelle Thomas, a teacher at Roberson Middle School in Spring, is accused of sexually assaulting an 8th grade student at the end of August. The teenager's father says he wished the school let him know sooner.
He said, "The investigation was going on two weeks before the school even let us know something was going on. I feel in a two week span they should have at least let the parents know."
Sources say the school district's police department began the investigation into Thomas after complaints of unwanted advances by another student. Court documents show Thomas allegedly raped the girl in his classroom during school hours.
Parents of Roberson Middle School students say they got an automated phone call about the investigation.
Rita Guillary, who has a child at the school, said, "I just think it's sad. No matter what district it's in, I just think it's a sad case for an adult to do something that."
The teenager's father says his daughter is working with counselors, and for now, has continued to go to school, though they are considering changing school districts.
"Whatever's better for her, I'll go with," he said. "I just want her to be happy and know that in no way was it her fault."
The school district says Thomas, who has taught at the middle school since 2009, is on administrative leave. The girl's father says he wants the school to be more aware of potential problems.
"I think school districts as a whole need to put cameras inside the classrooms," he said.
Thomas, 32, is charged with aggravated sexual assault of a child and has posted bond. He's due for his first court appearance on Thursday morning.
Parents are reminded to speak to their children and let them know to report any time they feel threatened or compromised by anyone. Students may contact any Roberson Middle School administrator or counselor, Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.Crime-Stoppers.org, and the Spring ISD Police Department at 281-893-7473.
In addition, an anonymous, online communication system for students called "Talk About It" is on the Roberson Middle School website.
