Christian school teacher accused of taping student’s mouth shut

HOMESTEAD, Fla. (WSVN) – A teacher at a Christian school in Florida is facing charges after two parents said he taped their son’s mouth closed during an argument.

From lessons in Christianity to a lesson in the law, Michael Alvarez went from Bible teacher to behind bars after being accused of taping the middle school student’s mouth shut.

“I’ve had my kids here for eight, going on to nine years. My son graduated from middle school and it’s been a fantastic school. Never had any problems,” Yanely Webb, a school parent, remarked.

Now, there is a big problem for the school.

Alvarez was booked into a Miami-Dade County jail Monday for simple battery.

Homestead police said they responded to First United Methodist Christian School on Northcombe Avenue.

The 13-year-old’s parents reported to police that Alvarez taped their child’s mouth shut following a disagreement with the teacher.

After investigating, Alvarez was arrested.

Some parents from the school said the teacher was actually pretty well loved and they’re just shocked by the whole situation.

“I was truly shocked. I’m a professor. I’m a teacher myself and it’s heartbreaking. It’s horrible what happened. I do not know that person, but I can attest that it’s been nothing but wonderful here,” Webb added.

Alvarez is charged with one count of simple battery. The school has not commented on the incident.