Ex-Teacher of Year Arrested on Child Sex Charges

​OCEAN SPRINGS, MS — Olivia Marie Smith, a former Ocean Springs educator once honored as Mississippi’s “Teacher of the Year,” has been taken into custody following a criminal investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct with a student.

​Smith, who most recently served as an assistant principal at Oak Park Elementary School, was arrested by the Ocean Springs Police Department on Thursday, July 16, 2026. She is facing serious felony counts, including sexual battery and enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes.

​Investigation and District Response

​The arrest follows a police investigation initiated on June 20, when the Ocean Springs School District (OSSD) received a report regarding alleged misconduct. According to district officials, the administration acted immediately upon receiving the tip, notifying both the local police department and Mississippi Child Protective Services.

​“We are deeply saddened by charges announced today by the Ocean Springs Police Department against one of our former employees,” the district stated in an official release. “Following an internal investigation, OSSD terminated the employee”.

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​Legal Proceedings

​During a probable cause hearing held Thursday, Circuit Court Judge Calvin Taylor set Smith’s bond at $100,000. Under Mississippi law, the sexual battery charge carries severe penalties, including a potential prison sentence of up to 30 years, exacerbated by the defendant’s position of authority over a minor.

​The Ocean Springs Police Department has confirmed that the investigation remains active and is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information regarding the case to contact the Ocean Springs Police Department at 228-875-2211 or provide an anonymous tip to Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.

​Former Ocean Springs educator arrested on child sex charges

​This news report provides additional local context regarding the arrest of the former assistant principal and the school district’s response to the allegations.