A former Washington Township, New Jersey, middle school teacher has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a minor student, authorities announced Thursday.
Background
Ashley Fisler, formerly of Orchard Valley Middle School, was taken into custody on Thursday in connection with allegations that she carried out a sexual relationship with a student who was in her class during 2021. The victim, now an adult, came forward earlier this year and admitted to investigators that the relationship occurred, according to court documents.
Investigators learned that multiple sexual encounters took place in 2021 in Fisler's personal vehicle and inside her classroom at the middle school, according to charging documents. The investigation uncovered messages and nude photographs of Fisler on the victim's digital devices, providing additional evidence of the relationship.
When confronted by investigators in March, Fisler denied any romantic or sexual relationship with the victim. She departed from her teaching position in 2023, though officials have not specified the circumstances of her departure.
During her tenure at Orchard Valley Middle School, Fisler received significant recognition for her work. She was nominated twice for 'Teacher of the Year' and ultimately won the school's 'Most Caring Award,' according to reports.
The Charges
Fisler has been charged with sexual assault of a minor, endangering the welfare of a child, and official misconduct. The charges were filed by the Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office under the direction of Prosecutor Andrew B. Johns.
If convicted on the most serious charge of sexual assault, Fisler faces up to 20 years in state prison. The additional charges of endangering the welfare of a child and official misconduct each carry potential sentences of up to 10 years, though any sentencing would be determined by the court based on various factors.
Key Takeaways
- Ashley Fisler, former Orchard Valley Middle School teacher, arrested Thursday on charges of sexual assault of a minor
- Alleged crimes occurred in 2021 when victim was a student in her classroom
- Sexual encounters took place in Fisler's vehicle and inside her school classroom
- Investigators found messages and nude photos of Fisler on victim's devices
- Fisler denied the relationship when confronted in March 2026
- She left her teaching position in 2023 and had won the school's 'Most Caring Award'
- If convicted of sexual assault, she faces up to 20 years in prison
What's Next
Fisler is expected to make an initial appearance in Gloucester County Superior Court where she will be formally advised of the charges against her. Defense attorneys have not yet been identified in public records. Prosecutors indicated that the investigation remains ongoing, though no additional victims have come forward at this time. The case is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in the coming weeks where prosecutors will present evidence supporting the charges.
The case represents one of several recent high-profile teacher-student sexual abuse cases to emerge in New Jersey, prompting renewed calls for enhanced screening procedures in school districts across the state.