David "Dave" Terrazas, a culinary arts instructor at LEE High School, has abruptly resigned just as the North East Independent School District launched an investigation into allegations of misconduct involving students. The district said the resignation was effective immediately and that officials are now scrambling to cover his classes in the school's Career and Technical Education program, as reported by MySA.
District confirms resignation and reports
According to MySA, an NEISD spokesperson confirmed, "The individual is no longer employed," adding that Terrazas resigned as the district opened its probe. The spokesperson said the district filed required reports with the Texas Education Agency/State Board for Educator Certification, San Antonio police and Child Protective Services.
How state oversight works
Guidance from the Texas Education Agency explains that school districts must report certain types of alleged misconduct, and that TEA's investigations division can place an investigative warning on an educator's certificate while it reviews allegations. Serious findings can lead to discipline that includes suspension or revocation of a certificate and placement on the Do Not Hire Registry.
Allegations, certification and school notice
MySA reports that TEA and SBEC records show Terrazas was first certified in September 2024 to teach trade and industrial education for grades 6–12, with approval to teach CTE courses in culinary arts and criminal justice. According to the outlet, a parent posted last Friday alleging sexual comments and violent outbursts in class, and LEE principal Alejandro Escamilla later sent a letter to families confirming Terrazas’ resignation and outlining the district's plan to provide temporary instruction and lab supervision.
Community ties
Beyond the classroom, Terrazas has been involved in local food and education work. Gardopia Gardens lists "Dave Terrazas" on its board of directors, identifying him as a chef and North East ISD instructor, reflecting his presence in East Side culinary and education circles.
What happens next
If San Antonio police or Child Protective Services move forward with separate criminal or DFPS investigations, the TEA may hold off on its own review to avoid interfering with those cases, according to the agency's guidance. NEISD says it is working with its Career and Technical Education department to provide appropriate instruction and lab supervision while it searches for a permanent replacement.
For now, the sudden resignation has left families and staff waiting for more information as district and state agencies work through their investigative and reporting steps. NEISD says it will follow state reporting rules while trying to keep students’ schedules and coursework on track.
