A married teacher, identified as Nicole Hernandez, who was once recognized as ‘teacher of the month’, reportedly engaged in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student. Hernandez, also known as Nikki Baird, allegedly initiated the inappropriate relationship by befriending and grooming the boy at a middle school in Kansas before the encounters escalated at Wichita North High School.
The affidavit states that Hernandez began by touching and hugging the student before progressing to multiple sexual encounters, citing personal issues in her marriage as justification. She allegedly bombarded the teenager with inappropriate messages, expressing desires to be with him.
As the relationship developed, Hernandez allegedly isolated the boy from his peers and arranged off-campus meetings, including a visit to an arts center where she made advances towards him. The victim reportedly felt pressured into physical interactions, with Hernandez insisting on secrecy to avoid consequences.
During the student’s final week before graduation, Hernandez allegedly coerced him into sexual activities in her office and later in her car on graduation night. The victim eventually cut off contact with Hernandez after realizing the impropriety of their relationship and sharing evidence, including nude photos and notes, with his family.
Hernandez was arrested on May 22 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 19 to face the charges against her. If you have experienced sexual assault, support and resources are available via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or by calling the national helpline at 0808 802 9999.