A former Menomonee Falls teacher and resident of Sussex charged with 12 counts of sexual assault of a student by school staff.

The charges for April Novak stem from incidents with a 16-year-old that occurred from October to December.

On December 11 a teacher reported to Menomonee Falls administration that he observed a male student and Novak, a reading specialist, embraced with a possible kiss in her classroom.

The student told police they engaged sexual intercourse on the couch in her classroom and performed oral sex on each other at least five times.

The contact happened at all times in the classroom during the fourth hour of the school day and did not happen outside of the school.

Novak and student both agreed not to tell anyone about their sexual relationship.

Novak admitted to have oral and vaginal sex with the student.

Superintendent Dr. Pat Greco released a statement to parents about the teacher charged with sexual assault of a student:

Dear Families,

We want to inform you that charges have been filed regarding the High School staff member that had an inappropriate relationship with a student. We can now tell you that the staff member is April Novak, who was formerly employed as a reading interventionist at the High School.

Ms. Novak was placed on leave on December 11 when the District first became aware of a possible inappropriate relationship between Ms. Novak and a student. Ms. Novak resigned during the school district’s investigation and no longer works for the School District of Menomonee Falls.

She has been charged with 12 counts of sexual assault of a student by school staff. All of these counts occurred on school grounds during the school day. A criminal complaint detailing the Menomonee Falls Police Department’s investigation was filed with the Waukesha County District Attorney today and Ms. Novak had her initial hearing.

The safety and well-being of our students is the highest priority for the School District of Menomonee Falls. The District takes this responsibility very seriously and will promptly investigate any concerns regarding student safety while also insuring that any such investigation is handled professionally and respects the confidentiality of all persons involved. The District is prohibited by law from further discussing Ms. Novak’s employment with the District or confidential student matters. Counseling staff will be available should your child express any concerns regarding this matter. We have a strong and supportive community here in Menomonee Falls, and we thank you for being part of it. The safety of our students has been and remains our highest priority. 

Novak said she did know he was 16-years-old.

Novak said nothing was forced on either end and indicated it was a mutual relationship. She said they had very strong feelings for each other.

According to Wisconsin Court Access website, April Novak’s husband filed for divorce on December 21.