A Grand Prairie middle school teacher faces felony charges after police arrested him for allegedly grooming a student, officials announced on Wednesday.
Kelvin Leiva, who taught at Arnold Middle School, was arrested on January 8 at his home on third-degree felony charges.
The arrest caps a months-long investigation that began when school officials received an anonymous tip about inappropriate communications. The case highlights ongoing concerns about student safety in educational settings.
Grand Prairie ISD placed Leiva on administrative leave on October 23, 2025, immediately after receiving the anonymous report. He hasn’t been on campus since that date, according to district officials.
Police took over the investigation the following day. The department confirmed Leiva’s arrest to school officials on January 14.
Principal Dexter Dixon notified parents through a letter emphasizing student safety.
“The safety and well-being of our students are among our highest concerns,” Dixon wrote in the communication, Fox 4 KDFW reported.
The principal’s letter confirmed the timeline of events and reassured families.
“Mr. Leiva was placed on administrative leave on October 23, after the district received an anonymous report alleging inappropriate communication with a student, and he has not been on campus since that time,” the letter stated.
Third-degree felony charges in Texas carry potential penalties of 2-10 years in prison. Such charges typically involve serious offenses against minors.
Neither police nor school officials released details about the alleged victim or the specific nature of the communications. The investigation remains ongoing.
Dixon thanked parents for their support during the situation.
“I want to thank you for your concern and support for our students and Arnold Middle School,” he wrote.
