Teacher's R-rated photo sparks probe

SANDUSKY — Sandusky Schools placed an employee on paid administrative leave Tuesday. District officials are conducting an investigation into allegations of professional misconduct involving Jeff Sherman, a seven-year employee. He has taught theater classes at Sandusky High School and coached football and basketball, superintendent Eugene Sanders said. Sherman is also the pastor of East Parish Street Church of Christ in Sandusky. In a phone call with the Register Tuesday, Sherman denied sending photos to students and having relationships with students, allegations made at a social network with a photo of man who appeared to be Sherman, unclothed from just below the waist, up. He said his phone was hacked and someone stole the photo and "sent it to themselves." In a social network post, Sherman said his Google account was hacked, causing inappropriate photos to be leaked. "I maintain my innocence," Sherman said. "I've never had any sexual relations with any student while they were in high school." Sanders said he signed a letter reprimanding Sherman and placing him on paid administrative leave. "The district investigation is to interview relevant individuals who may have information relevant to the matter under review and communicate with any individual who can provide us with additional information," Sanders said Tuesday. District chief of staff Stephen Sturgill and Sandusky High School principal Eric Talbot talked to Sherman Tuesday. Sanders learned about the allegations from Sturgill, who learned from someone who had photos from a social network site. Sandusky Schools is working with Sandusky police to investigate the incident, Sanders said. Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com and follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood