GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — A special education teacher from Ravenna High School has been charged following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student. Paul Masko, 53, of Grand Haven, was arraigned on Thursday on two counts of possessing child sexually abusive material and two counts of using a computer to commit a crime. He is currently being held in the Ottawa County Jail on a $500,000 bond.
The Grand Haven Department of Public Safety, in collaboration with the Muskegon County Sheriff’s Office, launched an investigation into the teacher after reports of the alleged relationship surfaced. Masko, who had been employed by Ravenna Public Schools, is facing serious charges related to his conduct.
The school district was made aware of the investigation on January 31, according to Superintendent Greg Helmer. In response, the district placed Masko on administrative leave and initiated an internal review. Helmer confirmed that Masko submitted his resignation on February 7, the same day he was arrested by law enforcement.
In a letter sent to families, Superintendent Helmer expressed the district’s commitment to student safety and well-being, acknowledging the emotional toll the incident has taken on the school community. “This is an incredibly painful moment for our school community, and we are committed to being as transparent as possible moving forward,” Helmer wrote.
Masko faces a probable cause conference scheduled for early March, where further proceedings in the case will unfold. The district has continued to emphasize its dedication to ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.
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