Former Sharyland ISD teacher accused of having sexual contact with student

A former Sharyland Pioneer High School teacher has been accused of having sexual contact with a student, according to the criminal complaint against her.

The alleged victim reported to McAllen police last month that on “numerous occasions” during the summer of 2017, he “made out” with 31-year-old Vanessa Sarai McManness of McAllen, a former teacher at Sharyland Pioneer High School, according to the criminal complaint.

The victim—assigned the pseudonym “Michael” in the criminal complaint— said he first met McManness when he attended Sharyland North Middle School.

Police say on two occasions during the summer, McManness provided Michael with beer and Malibu liquor at her house in McAllen. On one of those occasions, police say, McManness touched Michael in a sexual manner.

On Monday, McManness was charged with improper relationship between educator and student and indecency with child sexual contact.

The Sharyland Independent School District said Wednesday that McManness no longer works for the district. According to the Texas Education Agency, McManness is currently under review by their investigations division.

Records show McManness was released from the Hidalgo County jail on Tuesday.

McManness’ attorney, Carlos E. Ortegon, wasn’t immediately available for comment.