Tallahassee, FL - A Leon County teacher was arrested following an investigation that uncovered allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor. Mikayla Rich, 30, a third-grade teacher at Apalachee Elementary School, was taken into custody Wednesday, Oct. 15.
Investigation Traced Back to Private School
Detectives with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau began their inquiry in August. According to the agency, evidence and interviews confirmed that Rich had a three-year “relationship” with a 16-year-old student while she worked at Acts Christian Academy. She was 27 when the relationship began.
LCSO reported that the findings established probable cause for her arrest. Rich now faces one count of “offenses against students by authority figures,” a second-degree felony under Florida law.
School Affiliation and Past Role
Acts Christian Academy was affiliated with Pentecostals of the Capital City, an apostolic church in Tallahassee. A 2024 Facebook post from the church recognized Rich as the school’s principal, praising her leadership and involvement with students. The post also noted her dedication and described her as a central figure at the academy.
It remains unclear if Acts Christian Academy is currently operating. The school is not listed in the Florida Department of Education’s private school directory.
Current Employment and School District Response
While LCSO confirmed that Rich is no longer working within Leon County Schools, district spokesperson Chris Petley stated she remains on staff and will be placed on administrative leave. “She will be placed on administrative leave and face discipline in accordance with LCS employee policies and procedures,” Petley said in a statement to the Tallahassee Democrat.
Court documents detailing the exact timeline of her booking into the Leon County Detention Facility have not yet been made public. She did not appear in an online search of current inmates.
Ongoing Call for Information
The sheriff’s office said it is still reviewing whether other incidents occurred during Rich’s time at Acts Christian Academy. Anyone with information related to the investigation is urged to contact the Leon County Sheriff’s Office at 850-606-3300.
Understanding Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Elementary School Teachers
Michael Haggard, a Florida lawyer specializing in sexual abuse cases, explores the paths available to victims of sexual misconduct involving elementary school teachers. Haggard explains how survivors can seek both criminal justice and civil remedies, including holding schools accountable under Florida law for failing to protect students or ignoring abuse reports. This conversation outlines the legal tools that victims may use to seek financial compensation and hold institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Cases like this often raise questions about what victims and their families can do beyond the criminal investigation. What are their options?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Survivors, or their families, can explore both criminal and civil actions. While the state prosecutes the offender in criminal court, a civil claim can be filed against the perpetrator and possibly the institution if negligence played a role. This can help hold schools or other entities accountable when they fail to protect students.
Banville: Are there time limits for victims to take that step in Florida?
Haggard: Yes, but Florida law has made progress in extending or removing time limits for survivors in certain types of abuse cases. It’s always best for victims to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to understand their specific rights.
Reach Out for Help: Free Consultations Available Now
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a teacher, seeking legal help promptly can make a significant difference. Our team offers free, confidential consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. Don’t hesitate to contact us—there is support available to help you understand your rights and begin the path to recovery and accountability.
