A married middle school assistant principal in Florida has been arrested following allegations of inappropriate conduct with a 13-year-old student. Dr. Keva Lark, who served at Lake Marian Creek Middle School in Poinciana, reportedly instructed the student to massage her feet during a disciplinary meeting, which was not only deemed inappropriate but also raised serious concerns regarding her professional conduct.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred when the student was sent to Lark’s office for allegedly throwing paper during a test. Instead of administering discipline, Lark allegedly engaged the student in an alarming and unprofessional manner. Witnesses reported that she told the boy to rub her feet, claiming he “didn’t have anything better to do with his hands.” As the student complied, Lark reportedly guided him on how to massage her feet, even instructing him to do it “like you love me.” The situation escalated further when Lark allegedly referred to the student as “sexy chocolate” in the school hallway.
These incidents came to light when a witness reported Lark’s behavior to the school principal, who subsequently contacted authorities. Sheriff Grady Jud stated that Lark’s actions were inappropriate for someone in her position of authority and raised serious ethical concerns. Following an investigation, Lark was charged with lewd conduct and lewd offense against a student by an authority figure.
In the aftermath of these allegations, Lark admitted to crossing the line but denied making any inappropriate comments to the victim. She claimed that her actions were meant as a joke intended to humble the student. However, legal experts have indicated that the power dynamics in this case complicate Lark’s defense, as authority figures are expected to uphold standards of trust and safety for their students.
Dr. Lark is currently on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Polk County Public Schools Superintendent has publicly condemned the behavior, stating, “This is abhorrent behavior for anyone who works among students, especially an administrator. This person no longer has any business being around children.” The superintendent commended the principal for promptly reporting the incident to ensure the safety of students.
Legal experts suggest that the case may hinge on the testimony of the student, although the prosecution could also rely on witness accounts. If convicted, Lark could face significant legal repercussions, including potential registration as a sex offender, which would severely impact her career in education.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to determine the full scope of the incidents that occurred and whether any further action is warranted against Lark or the school. The case underscores the critical importance of maintaining professional boundaries and safeguarding the welfare of students within educational settings.