Teacher charged with sexual battery by an authority figure

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Metro Nashville Police said a Clarksville man was arrested on a charge of sexual battery by an authority figure while he was employed as a teacher at Stem Preparatory Academy last school year.

Michael Ligon, 36, was arrested on Thursday on one count of sexual battery by an authority figure after a 13-year-old student said he touched her inappropriately. The student reported Ligon fondled and kissed her at school.

An investigation began in April by Youth Services detective Matthew Mrowiec revealed multiple other students had similarly inappropriate interactions.

Stem Preparatory Academy placed Ligon on paid administrative leave after the first accusation was reported in April. Ligon was hired by Kipp Academy in July while still on paid leave from Stem Prep. Kipp Academy fired Ligon on Thursday.

Police anticipate additional charges to be added. Ligon is currently jailed on $75,000 bond.

Anyone with information about Ligon’s behavior around minors is asked to contact MNPD Youth Services Division at 615-862-7417.