High School Teacher Accused of Repeatedly Engaging in Drugged Sexual Activity with Teenage Student at Her Parents' Residence
A special-education teacher from Conestoga High School in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is facing a staggering 63 charges for allegedly engaging in sexual activities with a 16-year-old student. The accusations suggest that the teacher, Michelle Mercogliano, 35, had sexual encounters with the teen in her parents' home after providing him with marijuana.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by WPVI, the alleged relationship began in February and reportedly involved around a dozen sexual encounters. Mercogliano is accused of picking up the student after school and taking him to a dispensary to purchase medical marijuana. Following their trips, the two would allegedly smoke marijuana together before engaging in sexual activities, primarily in a bedroom at her parents' residence.
The investigation was initiated by the Tredyffrin Township Police Department after the student's family reached out to authorities regarding the troubling relationship. The charges against Mercogliano include institutional sexual assault and corruption of minors, which have raised significant concerns within the community.
Chief Michael Beaty expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The calculated actions by this defendant are shocking and disturbing.” He emphasized the department's commitment to supporting the victim and his family as they work to restore trust that has been compromised by these allegations.
Although Mercogliano was charged on Wednesday, she has not yet been arrested. Reports indicate that she has been cooperative with law enforcement and has scheduled a time to turn herself in alongside her lawyer.
In her professional capacity, Mercogliano serves as an academic support teacher at Conestoga High School and also teaches Italian as an adjunct professor at Immaculata University, as noted on the district's website. Following the emergence of these allegations, the Tredyffrin Easttown School District confirmed that she was placed on leave “immediately.”
Mercogliano had been part of the Conestoga teaching staff since the fall and previously worked at Hillside Elementary School from 2019 to 2024. Her tenure in the district dates back to 2014, when she began as a paraprofessional.
Superintendent Richard Gusick stated, “We have no information at this time to indicate that the criminal investigation involves other students,” aiming to reassure the community amidst the unfolding situation.
