A former Port Hope Grade 8 teacher has pleaded guilty to serious child-exploitation offences and will be sentenced later this month.
According to a report from CBC, 46-year-old Kelly-Anne Jennings appeared in a Peterborough courtroom on Thursday, where she entered guilty pleas to several charges stemming from incidents that occurred in 2023 while she was employed as a teacher.
Jennings was arraigned on six charges, including child luring, making child pornography, and distributing sexually explicit material to a minor. Parents of victims were present in court for the plea proceedings.
The case has drawn widespread attention in the community and among education officials. The Ontario College of Teachers is expected to begin disciplinary action following the court’s decision, which could result in Jennings’ permanent removal from the profession.
Jennings remains free under conditions as she awaits sentencing scheduled for November 27.
The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board previously confirmed Jennings was removed from the classroom immediately after allegations surfaced last year. The board says supports remain available to students and families affected by the case.
Authorities have not released further details to protect the privacy of the victims involved.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)