Novi teacher charged with sex crime

Tom Peronis on paid administrative leave

NOVI, Mich. – A fifth-grade teacher at Novi Meadows Elementary has been charged with a sex crime.

Tom Peronis, 44, of Troy, was arraigned Friday on one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, and has been released on bond.

Novi Superintendent Dr. Steve Matthews told Local 4 the charge stemmed from an investigation that began in May with two students. Peronis is on paid administrative leave.

"We are ensuring that we review his status in conjunction with Michigan State Tenure Teacher law so that we give him his appropriate rights, but we also want to ensure that we manage the responsibilities of the district appropriately," Matthews said. "Once we have put everything together, we will make a determination as to his status with the district."

Matthews said parents were notified of the investigation and will continue to be updated.

"We're aware of the situation and we're handling it appropriately," Matthews said.