Shock and Outrage: Coral Springs Charter School Teacher Arrested for Sexually Abusing Former Student – JUSTICE URGENT

Coral Springs Charter School – A routine afternoon for Coral Springs Charter School turned devastating when Joseph Michael Melendez, 33, was arrested on multiple felony charges, including sexual battery and lewd and lascivious molestation, for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old former student, school and community leaders said.

The Coral Springs community was shaken when educators and parents learned that Joseph Michael Melendez, a teacher who led the American Sign Language club and taught theater at Coral Springs Charter School, harbored a disturbing secret. Between 2018 and 2019—when the victim was in their freshman and sophomore years—Melendez developed a “sexual mentorship,” sharing pornography and initiating a relationship that deeply betrayed the trust placed in him as an educator. The victim’s courage in coming forward prompted a swift investigation by the Coral Springs Police Department’s Special Victims Unit. Melendez was arrested on August 7 at the Northwest Regional Library, and the school terminated his employment immediately, emphasizing that student safety is the top priority. Now facing several counts of sex battery and lewd conduct, Melendez is behind bars as the community reels from the betrayal and prepares for a trial that could redefine trust between students and educators.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Teacher arrested for sexual relationship with former student (aged 15 during the alleged abuse)

• IMPACT: One victim directly affected; deep erosion of trust in school safety

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: Melendez admitted the sexual relationship, police reported

• ACTION: Anyone with relevant information should contact the Coral Springs SVU at [email protected]

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Coral Springs Charter School — 3205 N University Dr, Coral Springs, FL (Grades 6–12)
   

2. Community Connection:
   “It is a great school, very safe… Once we know, we will know if we have concerns.”
   – Concerned parent outside the school-citing need for information

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This case highlights emerging patterns of abuse tied to extracurricular roles—such as after-school clubs—where trust is often misplaced. It renews the call for stricter oversight and proactive screening for educators operating in mentorship capacities.

Update Log

• Jul 21: Investigation launched following sworn victim testimony
  

• Aug 7: Melendez arrested by SVU; subsequently fired from his role
  

• Now: Case in judicial process; community seeks answers and transparency