Mass. Teacher Pleads Not Guilty to Rape of Child

A Massachusetts teacher has been arraigned on charges of aggravated rape and indecent assault and battery against a 13 year old.

Forty-one-year-old Alexandra Romanos of Stoneham was arrested and arraigned Wednesday. She has been placed on administrative leave by East Somerville Community School.

According to authorities, Romanos had a sexual relationship with the minor that took place both on and off school grounds.

Romanos is a fifth grade teacher and has taught in the school district for seven years.

Somerville Public Schools and the city released a joint statement Wednesday, reading, in part, "The safety and well-being of our students is always our highest priority, and upon learning of these shocking and very serious allegations, we took swift and immediate action."

Parents and guardians who have questions or seek support are asked to call Rich Melilo, the director of student services, at (617) 625-6600, Ext. 6028, or email rmelilo@k12.somerville.ma.us. They can also contact school information officer Susana Hernandez-Morgan at (617) 625-1600 or smorgan@k12.somerville.ma.us.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Somerville Police Sgt. Rich Lavey at (617) 625-1600, Ext. 7237.