A former middle school teacher is about to be sentenced for engaging in $ezual act, multiple times, with a 13yr old in her class.

 

Ashley A. Fisler, 36, of Washington Township, New Jersey, previously taught social studies at Orchard Valley Middle School from 2014 until 2023. She left the school system in April 2023 and has not returned to teaching since.

In January 2026, a former student, now an adult, reported that in 2021 while he was still a minor (13 years old) in her class, an unlawful relationship took place.

According to investigators, the alleged encounters happened multiple times. Some reportedly occurred inside a classroom after school hours, while others were said to have taken place in her vehicle.

Authorities say a review of the victim’s digital devices uncovered messages and images that supported the claims and pointed to an ongoing inappropriate connection at the time.

Following an investigation led by the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, she was arrested in late March 2026 and charged with a total of eight counts, including six counts of first degree sexual assault of a minor, one count of endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of official misconduct.

She is currently being held at Salem County Jail and appeared briefly in court via video, with a bail hearing scheduled for April 1, 2026.

Under New Jersey law, each first degree charge carries a potential sentence of 10 to 20 years, while the second degree charges could add up to 10 years each if convicted.

Through her attorney, she has denied the allegations and is expected to contest the charges in court.

Before her arrest, she had transitioned out of teaching, starting a small apparel business focused on sports themed merchandise and also working in a landscaping related administrative role.

The case only came to light years after the alleged incidents, highlighting how situations like this can remain hidden until victims decide to speak.

At its core, this is not just about one person or one school.

It is about what happens when trust is placed in the wrong hands.

Justice was also served because of the judicial system there. 

Opaluwa Oguche