Washington State Revokes Teaching Certificate Following Child Molestation Conviction

The Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction has permanently revoked the teaching credentials of a former Leota Middle School educator after he pleaded guilty to attempted child molestation.

The final order, dated June 11, 2026, permanently bars the individual from applying for reinstatement. He had held a state education certificate since August 1987.

The disciplinary action stems from a criminal investigation launched during the 2024–2025 school year while the subject was employed by the Northshore School District. According to state findings, between Nov. 16 and Dec. 10, 2024, he engaged in online conversations with a person he believed to be the mother of minor children. He arranged to meet the individual for the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse with a 12-year-old girl.

However, the individuals he was communicating with were commissioned law enforcement officers participating in an International Crimes Against Children task force.

On Dec. 10, 2024, the educator was arrested by law enforcement at the location where he had arranged to meet the child. The Northshore School District placed him on administrative leave the following day.

On Dec. 17, 2024, District Superintendent Michael Tolley filed a complaint with the state’s Office of Professional Practices, alleging a lack of good moral character and personal fitness.

Court records cited in the order show the subject was initially charged in King County Superior Court with second-degree attempted rape of a child. The charges were later amended to second-degree attempted child molestation, to which he pleaded guilty.

The state order also documents the subject’s departure from the district. On Jan. 15, 2025, he signed a “Resignation Agreement and Release” with the Northshore School District. Under the terms of the agreement, his resignation became effective immediately, and he received a one-time payment of $94,987.64.

Following his conviction, the subject was sentenced to 13 months of incarceration and 36 months of community custody. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender and is prohibited from having contact with minors for five years without the supervision of a responsible adult who is aware of his conviction.

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction concluded there was “clear and convincing evidence” that the subject committed a felony crime barring him from future practice as an educator. The state determined he exhibits a behavioral problem that endangers the educational welfare and personal safety of students.

As a result, his Washington Education Certificate was permanently revoked, effectively ending his teaching career.