BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — The superintendent of Harrison County Schools says he wants to revisit the school system’s policy on student-teacher relationships following the arrest of Bridgeport High School head football coach Josh Nicewarner.
“I don’t feel comfortable with some of our teachers friending on Facebook, texting and all of the other things that are available through technology today. I just think it opens up that door,” Superintendent Mark Manchin said on MetroNews “Talkline.”
Nicewarner, 34, is facing two felony charges in connection with attempting to seduce a minor via a computer.
According to investigators, Nicewarner knew a 14 year old victim who he’s accused of having an inappropriate relationship with from May-July.
Manchin announced last week Nicewarner has been suspended indefinitely without pay pending an investigation.
“We have not been able to determine any school computers were used,” Manchin said. “All indications is that he did all this on his own during his own time and that is incredibly unfortunate.”
Manchin said he plans to recommend firing Nicewarner during the Harrison County Board of Education’s meeting Tuesday night.
He also wants the BOE to consider changes to Harrison County Schools’ policy when it comes to the way teachers communicate with students.
“I will present language that will even tighten this up more that will very clearly delineate what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. I feel confident that we will make this stronger,” Manchin said.
Nicewarner is a physical education teacher at Liberty High School and coaches football at Bridgeport High School.
He’s accused of asking the girl to send explicit photos of herself. The criminal complaint says Nicewarner sent a video of himself “simulating masturbation” to the girl.
Nicewarner could face up to 15 years in prison. A preliminary hearing is set for Aug. 8.