Families at Winn Montessori in Northeast Austin were hit with alarming news this week after an Austin ISD teacher was arrested on a charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child. The district said the educator, identified as Carlos Ceniceros Nava, was taken into custody on Monday, April 6, 2026, removed from campus, and placed on administrative leave while Austin ISD Police carry out an investigation.
Winn Montessori scheduled a family meeting for the following morning and told caregivers that counselors and extra mental health support staff would be on campus. The district notified families and employees of the arrest and asked anyone with information that might help investigators to contact the police.
Arrest and District Response
According to KVUE, Austin ISD Police arrested Carlos Ceniceros Nava and booked him on a charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first degree felony under Texas law. The district said he had no contact with students during the course of the investigation and confirmed that he was placed on administrative leave.
The Winn Montessori staff directory lists Carlos Ceniceros as a primary class guide. In a letter to families, district officials asked anyone with relevant information to contact Austin ISD Police at 512-414-1703.
Support and Resources for Families
Austin ISD said it is bringing in additional counseling and mental health services on campus this week to support students and caregivers processing the news. Families looking for around-the-clock help can contact Austin-Travis County Integral Care’s 24/7 crisis line at 512-472-4357.
The district also pointed families to the Center for Child Protection at 512-472-1164, which offers free counseling and forensic services. Austin ISD employees have access to the district’s Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-833-515-0762 for confidential support, with more details available on the district’s EAP page.
What the Charge Means Under Texas Law
Under Texas law, aggravated sexual assault of a child is a first degree felony and is treated as one of the most serious criminal charges in the state. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction can carry a prison sentence that ranges from five to 99 years, or even life in prison.
The statute also allows for enhanced minimum sentences in cases involving very young children or other aggravating factors, and people convicted of this offense are commonly required to register as sex offenders for life. More detail is available in Texas Penal Code §22.021.
What Happens Next
Austin ISD Police are leading the criminal investigation, and prosecutors are expected to review the case as part of the standard charging process. School administrators told families they would share updates following the scheduled meeting and that on-campus counseling would continue for as long as needed.
Principal Bridget Farr and AISD assistant superintendent Jennifer Pace were both named in the district’s notice to families, KVUE reports. The district said it is cooperating with law enforcement and again urged anyone with tips or concerns to call Austin ISD Police.
