A 25-year-old Georgia high school biology teacher faces two felony charges after allegedly engaging in sexual conduct with an underage student on school grounds and in a vehicle parked in a residential area.

Details of the Allegations

Maris Nichols, who teaches at Alexander High School in Douglas County and serves as director of the football program, was arrested Thursday and taken into custody. According to arrest warrants obtained by local media outlets, authorities allege Nichols had sexual contact with the student twice—once on April 23 inside a school closet at Alexander High School, and again on May 2 inside a Hummer vehicle parked at the end of a residential driveway in Douglasville. She faces two counts of sexual assault by a person in a position of supervisory or disciplinary authority.

Court Appearance and Bond

Nichols made her first court appearance Friday via video conference, with the courtroom reportedly packed with observers. A judge set her bond at $40,000. Jail records confirm she was booked into the Douglas County Jail on Thursday. The district has placed the teacher on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. School officials declined to provide additional details about the allegations, directing further inquiries to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

District Response

Douglas County School System officials released a statement confirming they launched an investigation immediately upon learning of the alleged misconduct. The district emphasized that student safety remains their highest priority and stated the alleged behavior violates the professional standards all employees must uphold. School officials pledged full cooperation with state and local law enforcement agencies. The statement did not address questions about oversight procedures or whether any warning signs preceded the alleged incidents. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue gathering evidence.

Ongoing Investigation

Law enforcement continues to investigate the allegations against Nichols. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has not disclosed the age of the student involved or whether additional charges may be filed. The case highlights ongoing concerns about student safety and the responsibilities of school employees in positions of authority. Parents and community members await further developments as the legal process moves forward.