A former high school math teacher in Missouri has been sentenced to four years in prison for a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old student. Her arrest followed a report by a student in December 2023, which led to a police investigation.
Hailey Clifton-Carmack, 26, previously taught at Laquey High School in Waynesville. She was charged with multiple offenses, including statutory rape and child molestation. In September 2024, she pleaded guilty to sexual contact with a student.
Evidence found during the investigation included messages on Clifton-Carmack’s phone and photos of scratches on the student’s back, which the teen said were from a sexual encounter.
Clifton-Carmack received her prison sentence on October 11, 2024. She may be eligible for release in as little as three months if she successfully completes a sex offender treatment program. According to the school district, she has not worked there since December 2023 and will not be returning.
The student’s father was also arrested and charged with first-degree child endangerment. Authorities allege he knew about the relationship and failed to report it.
He reportedly told a witness he allowed the relationship because he believed it would happen anyway. He has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting his court proceedings.
The case has caused concern within the local community regarding student safety in schools.
