New Jersey Chemistry Teacher Charged with Student Sex Assault

26-year-old Jason Howe accused of having sexual relationship with female student at his apartment

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:51pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a set of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, capturing the stark, gritty, and investigative nature of this crime story.The arrest of a teacher for alleged sexual misconduct with a student exposes the harsh realities of abuse of power in schools.Runnemede Today

A 26-year-old chemistry teacher at Sterling High School in New Jersey has been charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child after a female student reported having a sexual relationship with him at his apartment. Jason Howe, who also coached several girls' sports teams, was arrested shortly after the allegations were reported to local police.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious breach of trust when a teacher engages in sexual misconduct with a student, as well as the potential power imbalance and vulnerability of young students. It raises concerns about the school's oversight and any potential 'culture' issues that may have enabled this alleged behavior.

The details

According to prosecutors, the student - who was between 16 and 18 years old - reported 'having a sexual relationship' with Howe. Detectives determined the two had engaged in sexual intercourse at Howe's apartment in Runnemede last month. Howe has been charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child, which carry a maximum 10-year prison sentence. He has been banned from the school property and is due in court next week.

  • The alleged sexual relationship occurred sometime last month.
  • Howe was arrested on Friday, shortly after the allegations were reported to police.

The players

Jason Howe

A 26-year-old chemistry teacher at Sterling High School in New Jersey who has been charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a female student.

Sterling High School

The high school in Camden County, New Jersey where Howe taught chemistry and coached several girls' sports teams.

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What they’re saying

“I wasn't surprised, there is like a culture around Sterling High School.”

— Unidentified Parent

“He was a great teacher. I would have never expected him to do this. It was shocking to me when I found out.”

— Nate Schwarz, Senior Student

What’s next

Howe is due in court next week, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for robust oversight, training, and accountability measures in schools to prevent teachers from exploiting their positions of authority and trust. It also highlights the lasting trauma and betrayal that student victims can experience when educators engage in sexual misconduct.