My son had Mr. Wilson for computers and advisory class where he gave my son 5s in citizenship where none of the other teachers seemed to have a problem with my son at all. After reading another boy's problems with Mr. Wilson being unkind to him, I have to wonder if Mr. Wilson disliked the boys - he was unwilling to have my son sit in the front of the class when he said the problem was my son was goofing off in class too much.

I agreed with the person that said this comment section should not be allowed - it is fueling the feared and making scared parents feel worse. People's word choices clearly show which category they are in.

I was a student of Kevin Wilson and will never forget that he changed my life. He saw talent in me and was the first to ever offer me leadership opportunities. Regardless of the results in this case - this man inspired many - which makes me very sad about his situation. I only hope that people know he is being punished and throwing extra stones to does not help - especially to his family

- I feel sad that people find themselves in those kind of situations - his life must have led him there, containing many unfortunate events - if you never read up on the topic - rarely does one HUNT for the young - filling a void, perhaps - for such a wonderful man to be down such a dark road - it breaks my heart. For him to have done so much good for me (and many others as well), it hurts to think that he ended up on such a horrible path.

Negative comments fuels hatred, please remember that. Family and loved ones read these - lets not make their lives any darker. Until then, I will think about the people involved in this case, him, his children, and loved ones --

No, being employed by a school district does not automatically mean that someone is in a position of authority. According to the document in the last post, page 28, for CSC I and II there has to be proof that the perpetrator used his or her position to coerce the other person (and in Michigan criminal law, as in most states, that means proof beyond a reasonable doubt). CSC III and IV do not require this element.

However, I'll think I'll let the courts decide what happens. They are the experts, after all ...

No.. if you read the law (CSC).. age is a factor, one of several. But since he was employed by the school district (k-12) that is all that needs to be met.

http://courts.michigan.gov/mji/resources/sabb/Chap2CSCAct.PDF

The child's age DOES matter in a court of law. It is one of the factors that determines the difference between the degrees of CSC and the amount of time to be spent in prison if convicted.

Does it really matter whether it was in high school or middle school? The female CHILD was between 13 and 16 years old. Since when is it ever ok for someone of Mr. Wilson's age and authority (at the time of the alleged incident)to have sex with a child? She was 13-16 years old and he was 37 years old (or there about.) Not only is that sick and wrong but it is illegal. I don't buy for a second that Mr. Wilson wasn't aware of statutory rape laws. Of course, Mr. Wilson is innocent until proven otherwise but to belittle the incident because of age is wrong.

The man is deserving of a fair trial...is that an O.J. murder trial?...we'll see. My sister was a member of this man's band and I swear if he did this to her.... you get the idea! I believe he did this, and should be punished to the full extent of the law. May he be butt plugged to the end of his years!!

To the people who are up in arms about Kevin Wilson supposedly being a pedophile and child molester: The police have said the incident(s) occurred while she was in HIGH SCHOOL. Now that doesn't make it right by any means, but before people crucify him as a child molester take a look at the facts. We don't even know the circumstances - whether the situation was consensual or not, etc. We do know that the charge is for this one situation the victim reported, not rumors of how he treated students over the years. You can't arrest somebody based on rumors. Several posters on this blog have indicated his improper (but not illegal) behavior was primarily with high school juniors and seniors. Again, I'm not condoning his actions, but just clarifying the specifics.

We are broadcasting students at Northern Michigan University. We are reporting on the Wilson trial and will be in court tomorrow. We would like to hear what you have to say. Any previous students of Wilson or Parents of students of his would be appreciated. We need to hear your comments for our news package. If anyone is willing to share their experiences or opinions please contact us at Ashay2005@yahoo.com Thanks your support is needed and appreciated.

I just found out a friend of mine has a posting on facebook from June 10, 2008 asking if others were having troubles with MAPS and the very issues that are being discussed on this board. Long before the issues with Mr. Wilson were made public. If you want a copy of his posting.. email me at joe.miller31@yahoo.com. To me, this is evidence that there is a consistent problem in the school district.

The things written on this board pertaining to the school district are FAR from Dogmatic!!!! People with your attitude are what created this problem. Let's not pretend there aren't some serious flaws. The best way to make a bad situation worse is not address the underlying problems that created this situation.

I have had some very negative dealings with the district. And I am a fairly well known professional person in town... and I am not the only one. Even before this incident several of us have been discussing how to approach these problems.

Does the adminisraters care ? Why was he still allowed to teach. We as parents cant say anything to this school district. I work in the public I have never heard anything positive about marquette school admistrators marquette high has low school spirit and you wouldnt dare disagree with them because in the end you dont matter . I feel sorry for everyone involved it should have never went this far. This school system needs a change someone who cares about the needs of the kids and parents we have let them take control. Its time to take it back from school administrators to our schoolboard who support them.
We need change!

w

I had Wilson all three years at Bothwell, and I knew that somehting was going on with him. I mean, he always hit on the flutes and that's just wrong. It was creepy. He'd favor the flutes and hate the trombones...as well as the rest of the bassline, which I was in.
I thought he was a complete a** because of that. It made me hate band with a fiery passion.

I was so happy when I got out of there and had Dr. Ludwig at MSHS.

Be thankful you haven't had a child assaulted by a teacher or student while they were at MAPS. Two of my children have been failed on so many levels when it comes to their safety. Not only did the system fail to protect them but the administrators failed to correct the repeated problem (which was student related.)

I won't argue that there are several fantastic teachers at MAPS. Despite that, there are still serious flaws that need to be corrected. It is time to stop sweeping everything under the carpet in the hopes that the problems will go away.

Bylaws and mission statements are supposed to be more than just words.

He was the only teacher that i ever had a single problem with in 12 years of schooling. Let's just say he once wasted 45 min yelling at myself and a few other students for wasting time. It was ALWAYS rumored/joked around about that he was a pervert. Friends of mine saying that he put his hand on their leg and was flirty. I am not surprised

If he gets convicted then good riddence.

If he doesn't get convicted, the shame and ruined career has been long over due.

Dogmatic statements about MAPS have no place in this forum. Marquette has quality, talented, professional teachers, administrators and employees who serve our children safely and responsibly every day. Shame on those of you who choose to generalize. Many MAPS employees spend countless hours and personal dollars to insure your children receive outstanding experiences in our schools. I am certain you and your children can recall several strong, positive influences in your children's educational history here. Let's not punish or tarnish the good, faithful, dedicated teachers, administrators and staff in our community. The job is often deemed "thankless" in many arenas. Please think about your insensitive, dogmatic comments and how they will deflate those that are earning an honest living and reputation. Teaching is a sacrific for the greater good. Let the justice system punish those who abuse this privledge.
My family chooses to recognize and support all the good in our local school system.

AMEN TO THAT...I TOO HAD ISSUES AND MET WITH THE TEACHER,COUNSILOR AND MY DAUGHTER...I FEEL MY DAUGHTER WAS BEING HARRASSED, AFTER THE TEACHER LEFT THE MEETING, THE COUNSILOR AGREED WITH ME; HOWEVER, "THE TEACHER IS ALWAYS RIGHT" IS WHAT I WAS TOLD...
THERE ARE MANY SAD ISSUES..IT SEEMS AS THO THIS HAS OPENED A DOOR THAT HAS BEEN SHUT ON MANY DIFFER ISSUES....
I HAVE THREE DAUGHTERS THAT HAVE GRADUATED FROM MAPS, TWO WHICH HAD MR WILSON. WHEN I CONTACTED THEM THEIR REPLY WAS THAT THEY WERE NOT SURPRISED. THEY WERE BOTH ONE OF HIS SO CALLED FAVORITES, BUT I DO NOT BELIEVE EVERY ONE OF HIS FAVORITES WHERE A VICTIM OF THIS BEHAVIOR....I DO BELIEVE THE YOUNG LADY THAT HAS COME FORWARD AND KEEP HER AND THE WILSON CHILDREN IN MY PRAYERS. (ALONG WITH ANY OTHER VICTIM/S).I HAVE SEEN BEHAVIOR BY HIM AND ANOTHER MALE TEACHER AT A SCHOOL FUNCTION, RIGHT AFTER THEY BOTH DIVORCED THEIR WIVES, THAT I COULD KICK MYSELF I DID NOT REPORT TO THE SUPERINTENDENT...IT WAS VERY DISTURBING.
THERE ARE NO WINNERS IN THIS SITUATION, I PRAY THE WRONGS WILL BE MADE RIGHT AND ALL PEOPLE AFFECTED WILL HAVE CLOSURE AND HEALING... FOR THE YOUNG LADY IN 2001 THAT WAS HURT EMOTIONALLY, PHYICALLY AND MENTALLY....HANG IN THERE KIDDO, YOU HAVE MANY PEOPLE PRAYING FOR YOU....................

There are two issues here:

1) Whatever Mr. Wilson did or did not do. And that will be determined where it should be, a court of law.

2) And the more important issue for the community, has the school board, administration, teachers, and counselors of the school district been held accountable when there is an issue with a child?

I too have made complaints about teacher behavior in the past and was basically told that my child and I did not matter and the teacher was always right and the parent and the child were always wrong. I was even told at one point.. "If you don't like it take your kid to another school"..

There needs to be a recruitment of strong and well educated people to the school board. People who do not think that "teachers do no wrong". People who can not be bluffed in a teacher saying.. screaming at a kid in front of class is a good pedagogical practice.

It is time we (the community) hold these people accountable. There is no bigger waste of tax dollars than having to pay off a civil suit (or suits) in this case. And our children's education is what is being hurt in the long run.

How can we attract business and development to this community with an education system that refuses to be held accountable?

It is time for "We the People" to clean house and recall 100% of the school board, if for nothing else. To make a statement.

Scott Brogan has one of two choices: withdraw from the case or resign from the MAPS School Board. Even though this is a criminal matter, there is the potential for a civil suit. The School Board has the responsibility to protect the students and the faculty and it appears that the Board is unwilling to take appropriate action.

There is absolutely NO conflict of interest in Brogan representing Wilson in this matter...

1. Brogan is defending Wilson in a crime that has been charged against him by the city/county/state, NOT the school board.

2. The school board is not defending Wilson or paying Brogan to defend Wilson. Brogan is Wilson's attorney. Brogan is not the "school board's attorney" to give to teachers that are in trouble. Brogan has his own job as an attorney and is not just a school board member. People on boards do have a day job.

Now if MAPS was charging Wilson, and then Brogan was his lawyer, THAT would be a conflict of interest.

Whoever will answer this thank you... How exactly do u 'investigate' something that happened 12 years ago? How do you put a man through this when the 'investigation' involves just the word of one person? What if this person didn't like him or they just want attention. This mans life is ruined now.

But i just want to know.. How was this 'investigation' conducted?

I have to say that I did a YAHOO dance when my youngest child graduated from the MAPS. I too have had to complain about teachers and they were NEVER wrong as far as the higher up were concerned. I am SURE LOTS has been swept under the table in our school system, sad but true!

Scott Brogan is running unopposed for re-election to the School Board. The deadline to run as a write in candidate is Friday (tomorrow) at 4pm. Anyone interested in running as a write in?! This is nuts that he won't resign!

Somethings don't just add up. I have known mr. wilson for many years as a teacher becasue my siblings and cousins have had him. He has always seems like nice guy but i've NEVER seen this so called flirting with his students. Why is everyone trying to ruin this mans life over something that happened so long ago. And yes I understand its hard to come forward as a victim, I have been a victim myself, but still 12 years later, is a very long time to take. Also mr.wilson isn't the only guy at MAPS that has rumors going around about him. If MAPS really has the students best interest at heart they would check into all the teachers. I myself NEVER had a problem with ANY MAPS TEACHERS! They have always had my respect and trust put in them becasue they all have respect for their student as far as im concerned.
My little brother attends bothwell right now and has had mr. wilson but has never had a problem with him or any other teacher. And hes a guy but was liked my mr. wilson. My brothers opinon is that all these rumors are just what they are called rumors.

I don't believe in ruining this mans life and reputation over something that has happened 12 years ago. If the courts find mr. wilson innocent after all this, what is he suppose to go back to? His name means nothing anymore and if he was put back in the school system, parents would still complain and not want their kid in his class.

I do love my brother and cousin and all their friends, and would never want them hurt! So on the off side this is true. Then he does deserve what he gets. But None the less I dont think LIFE in prison is the right answer.

It seems to me that having a member of the School Board, Scott Brogan, as Mr. Wilson's lawyer would be just a "little" bit of a conflict of interest?!?!

im so glad that this creep is behind bars. now im not sure who to trust. i never had him as a teacher when i was in bothwell, but it is still really scary to think that our school district took this guy in to teach, who else do we have to worry about?

If what some people are writing is true and there were people in the school district who knew this and kept it quiet. Shouldn't they be charged with conspiracy?

If that is the case.. I expect the prosecutor's office to charge everyone involved!!!

So much for "innocent until proven guilty!"

You people tell yourselves that because he was charged with CSC that he must be guilty because prosecutor would not bring charges otherwise.

In AMERICA, suspects are INNOCENT until PROVEN GUILTY in a COURT OF LAW!

Douse your torches, put away the pitchforks, and wait for the justice system to determine the fate of Kevin Wilson.

Stop being self-righteous you bunch of hypocrites!

I'm another former student who had Mr. Wilson during his tenure at the middle and high school level. I'm also graduated with the alleged victim. Needless to say, it was a long time coming. All the comments regarding why students who had him as a teacher quit also applies to my case. He did have his favorites and it apparent in selection of chair ranking. As a teacher, they train us never allow yourself to be in a 1-on-1 situation with students of the opposite gender. Mr. Wilson's was well educated regarding this matter (i.e. inservice and educational training) and still made the poor choice of doing this during his tenure. There were many options the school district could have made back in 1996-97 after he was reassigned the middle school assignment. Unfortunately, the school district kept him employed knowing of the alledged abuse. For the community of Marquette, I hope that the press coverage doesn't tarnish the repuation of the area. For Mr. Wilson, I hope in his case, he repents and prays for forgiveness. My prays and thoughts go out to family of the victims and Mr. Wilson's children.

Just last year I graduated from the MAPS school district, and even though nothing as serious as this came up in my school years I am not suprised.
MAPS is known by students to keep things swept under the rug.
It always seemed that because students were not the authority, they were never right, and should never be taken seriously. I, for a fact, KNOW that students have told authorities about Mr. Wilson (and others) and nothing seemed to be done about it. Now look what happend. I do not believe he's the only teacher with "skeletons in his closet". ALL teachers in ALL school districts should be investagated for things. (Maybe not all crimes like this one, but something)
I'm willing to bet another story like this will soon come out, only with the Gwinn high school. These kinds of things can easily be stopped, before they seriously start. So lets do something about it.

This is not the only school district in the Upper Peninsula that sweeps sexual harassment issues under the rug. I know of a school in my home town where there was certain sexual advances made to a young girl with in the past 2 years and nothing was done. These are our children. The administration and teachers in these school districts need to buck up and start opening their eyes to the perverts they are hiring and working with. Rumors do not start for just any reason. If you are a teacher or principal and you hear of a relationship between a student and a teacher, wake up!!! Something is really going on!!!!! Check it out and do not ignore it. That is your job to keep children safe! Middle school and high school is the most impressionable age of growing up and these perverts know it. Why do you think they choose to work in schools? Parents never trust anyone with your precious child!!!! Listen and watch everything that happens. Shame on anyone who blames those young girls. Hopefully nothing like this ever happens to your children!!! You dont know how much it affects someone until it has happened to you. Good luck to all the victim and please pray justice is served!

I would have to agree with the "offensive" comment by 'Not important'. I don't know how old some of you are, but things have changed. I graduated from MSHS not too long ago. I had Mr. Wilson for three years in band. You could say I was one his "Favorites" and yes I am female. Everyone knew it because of the way we could joke around, but NO he never once tried to do anything to me. If this girl really did have sexual intercourse with him, then my guess would be it was consentual. I am NOT saying this was right, but teens know what sex is especially in high school, and are having it at a younger age. Im NOT saying if he did have sex with her it was RIGHT, it was VERY wrong on his part, but I do not believe he physically held her down and raped her. I don't care what some of you say about high school students being children. That is offensive to all teens because even the state looks at us as adults when we are 18 sometimes younger. I don't think a child could drive a car or purchase cigarettes. Let the courts handle it and if Mr. Wilson is guilty then he will be punished. End of story.

While this may be a criminal matter now... we have to assume there will be a Civil Suit that follows at some point. And any attorney worth their salt is going to name every administrator, counselor, supervising teacher, and school board member possible as a defendant is that suit.

A professor of mine pointed out that there is a legal issue here "known or should have known". In other words, if the district was really monitoring these issues (rumors, kids dropping his class, documenting concerns, etc.) it would have been obvious there was a potential problem. They didn't...

This is a quote from an EEOC source-

"Since Meritor, the lower courts have not reached entirely uniform results in applying agency law principles to hostile environment cases. Employers, therefore, are well advised to observe the EEOC's guidelines on this issue. Under these guidelines, employers are liable when either their supervisors or agents create a hostile environment, or if the employer knew or should have known of the sexual harassment and failed to take immediate and appropriate corrective action."

So... while the conflict of interest now is a little questionable. When this goes to Civil Court.. there will be a conflict.

Citizens do not get arrested on 2 counts of CSC I with $100,000. cash bonds on each count if the prosecutor's office does not have enough evidence to support the charges. Taking someone into custody and charging him for this type of a crime does not come lightly or unfounded.
Consider that.

While I have been out of HS for over 20 years, somethings do not change. There have always been teachers/coaches that have been involved with improper and unprofessional behavior with regards to HS kids. What baffles me the most.....WHy is it allowed to continue?? I am not from the U.P. I've only lived here for 6 years. In the time that I have lived here with my three children, I have had to address Sexual harrassment at two out of three area HS, and physical abuse at one. No kidding. I am not a hovering parent, and have never stepped in until any one of my three kids asked me to, as they have been raised to try and resolve these types of things on their own, but keep me informed. Amazingly enough...Adminstrative intervention did not occur until this Parent walked in the door and said hey..."If it doesn't stop, My child has my permission to knock the crap out of the predator, and will take the punishment". My kids tried to stop it on their own verbally, went to adults/teachers, and the final step was Mom walking in the door. Now of course, no school will tolerate one student kicking another students butt, so "let's not resort to violence, we talk to whoever". Of course then there is a backlash on the child/teenager, and the cycle becomes a little more passive, and we all know kids talk. Make no mistake, the same type of garbage happens in every school. The difference between resolve, and continuation is addresing the complaint on the first report. No pooh-poohing the "kid", and leaning towards the adults word. Adults have a responsibility to behave themselves no matter the situation when a child is involved. An 18 years old HS student is NOT AN ADULT. PERIOD. Guilty or Not Guilty is up to the courts to decide. I'm just wondering why Mr. WIlson was transferred from MSHS to Bothwell Middle School? If complaints really were filed back in the 1990's who investigated them, and what was the resolve to the complaints. When a student receives attention from a teacher, they feel accepted. IF a child feels accepted by an adult in their teen years, they will come back for more attention as that is what their self-esteem dictates. Positive reinforcement is wwat a teen-ager seeks. Even when they know something isn't quite right. Any attention is attention, and acceptance is a very valuable feeling. EVEN IS THE BEHAVIOR IS NEGATIVE!!

I had Mr. Wilson for Band as well, I was a female student. Now when I had class with him I dont remember seeing him act flirty or touchy-feely with any of the students, for the 2yrs I had him. Nor did I suspect he was doing anything wrong. He was good looking teacher Im sure a lot of girls have had crushes on him. I am not sayin that in any way shape or form that makes this inncident okay.

I guess seeing and hearing some proof would be more convincing for me.

In the mean time I am thinking of his kids! Imagine how they feel having their dad plastered on the news and having people say such hateful things. Even if he is found not guilty his reputation is tarnished forever.

I hope the "truth" comes out and I wish his family the best.

There isn't a reason for everyone and their brother to be posting negative things on TV6's website. Nothing you say is going to matter at this point. Unless you are a victim or have information on what he was allegedly doing, you can shut your mouth. Otherwise, do us all a favor and go to the authorites don't post on TV6 about how NOT shocked you are. We don't care! Unfortunately if this is true it is very sad that it took this long to come forward but that's not one persons fault but his. Let his family be, stop criticizing the victims for their lapse in time in reporting the crime, and most of all be courteous to those of us who have faith in the judicial system and the truth. So many people just want gossip and are searching for more and more things to come forward so they can tell their friends. LET IT BE. This case will take it's course and the guilty will be punished. God help (and i am not usually a very religious person) his family and his alleged victim's get through this without all of Marquette County shunning them for the rest of their lives.

I've read every single comment posted on this forum. Some I agree with, some I don't. Others I think are flatly ridiculous and frankly, way out of line!

To those commenting on whether or not the attorney, representing Kevin Wilson, Mr. Brogan (a MAPS School Board Member) has a conflict of interest in his representation of Mr. Wilson...you're claims are completely baseless and idiotic.

This case is not, I repeat, IS NOT a civil matter between MAPS and Mr. Wilson. If it were, Mr. Brogan, I'm sure, would cite a conflict of interest if asked by Mr. Wilson for representation. There are currently no claims against MAPS for wrongdoing and MAPS is not being investigated criminally or involved in this case whatsoever.

This case is a criminal case between "the citizens of Marquette County," visa vie the alleged victim, and Mr. Kevin Wilson.

For some of you to try and find fault with Mr. Brogan is just absurd! Mr. Brogan is a defense attorney. It is his job to defend the accused. It's how he earns a living. Maybe the two of them are friends. Maybe they are relatives, maybe Mr. Brogan believes Kevin Wilson is innocent and deserves the best defense possible.

Maybe some of you should shut up! The one thing that disturbs me most about these TV6 message boards is that it gives people from out of the area the chance to see what a bunch of ignorant buffoons that live here have to say.

The lack of higher education on many of you is humiliating. So many of your comments are factless, baseless, and are obviously meant to incite hatred and impune the reputation of one who is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty. You know what many of these comments sound like...? A bunch of high school gossip. Grow up and get a clue!

I cannot believe what I just read- A Teacher/School Consolor is commenting on this... and not in the best intrest of the students? What is wrong with that! Hello Teachers and Administration- Everything you do is to protect the students right? In my workplace I will protect my co-workers as well.. But if my co-worker was being accused of something like this I would either A- Shut my mouth and not say a word or B-If I felt I needed to say anything I would defend the possible victim- Are you all nuts- What is wrong with this world- Isnt that why people still live in the UP? So we can not lock our doors- the small town vibe- I now live in NC and things like this happen all the time- But in MQT- and what shocks me even more is that the members of the UP are not standing behind these victims 110%. Some of the comments that these people have left about "Skeletons" are not even worth a responce- Bottom line- My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims- If in the end the evidence says hes innocent- Then maybe MAPS and Kevin will pay closer attention to the "favorites" and the "rumors" and put a stop to them a lot sooner than 20+ yrs later-

Keep your chin up to everyone effected by this! With Love and support-

I am absolutely appalled at some of the comments posted on here. To the people defending Mr. Wilson: Why in the world would you assume that the victim is more likely to be lying to ruin the man's life than telling the truth? There seems to be a false impression that women go around ruining lives with false allegations like this when the reality is that 98% of sexual assault allegations are found to be true. What possible motivation would a person have to come forward 12 years later with false allegations against a former teacher? Do you think this will encourage other abuse victims to come forward when the community is more likely to defend the abuser?
I have read several posts by people saying things along the lines of, "Isn't it strange that this person didn't come forward before?" implying that this person is a) lying or b) stupid for not coming forward earlier. The post “Innocent until proven guilty” by “Not important” and the one from “F. Wayborn” were especially ignorant and offensive. It's obvious that these people are completely unaware of the effects of sexual assault on the victim. As a victim myself, I can assure you that being sexually abused was the most painful event of my life and years later, I have still not gotten over it. Reporting the abuse was the hardest thing I've ever done. Let me give you just a few reasons off the top of my head why this girl may not have come forward immediately: Shame, guilt, embarrassment, feelings of low self-worth, self-isolation, denial/repression, fear of the abuser's power status in society, feeling that they don't have any rights to report the crime, fear of retribution by the abuser or his friends/family, fear of not being believed, fear of reliving the traumatic event...
People are not arrested on the basis of rumors, especially after month-long investigations are held. The police have much more information to act on than has been made public. Just because you also knew Mr. Wilson and he was decent to you, does not mean you know how he treated the rest of us. Sexual abusers are not a distinct type of people who are identifiable by their defective nature; they are exactly like the rest of the population. If they did not blend in, we would not have cases of sexual abuse. The majority of his former students (both when he taught high school and middle school) have voiced similar reactions about his behavior and have mentioned rumors. This is obviously not an isolated event. Rumors do not follow a man throughout his entire career for no reason at all. Wake up! It's disgusting to see so many people disregard these serious charges of inappropriate behavior from his students. They are the ones who should be listened to. Shame on you for defending this man and ignoring the kids. Let's show the victim some support for finally finding the courage to come forward. Hopefully she will be able to get some closure.

In response to michelle, yes, I feel sorry for his wife, or ex wife, whatever it may be. I have to ask this tho of all of you. If your husband/wife was a teacher, and they spent time outside the classroom with particularly students of the opposite sex...and even worse text messaging and instant messaging them...wouldnt you think thats a little strange, and confront him/her, and demand him/her to stop?

I just have to wonder how this guy was free to prowl around with his students outside of the classroom. And MAPS, dont give me this smoke and mirrors that "we havent had problems in the past." Im sorry, but this community is way to small NOT to know. Just reading these comments tells me there are lots of issues being ignored daily. It sickens me to listen to this maps administrator saying "not as long as Ive been here." You been there how long? Surely long enough to have your own fingerprints on this issue, due to your ignorance. You should audition for All My Children or General Hospital. Thank god my child doesnt go to marquette schools. Come on MAPS, buck up and do something, admit wrong, and make some changes. Whats it going to take? Whether its city council or maps, its a clown show.

Thank-you for acknowledging my mother as one of your favorite teachers. She was touched by your comments when I read them to her.

i know someone who went thru the very same thing. the sad thing is the negative story stays with him --the one accused even when its all over with and hes found not guilty. the negative broadcasting goes on and on and on and on... but after the trial is over and hes found not guilty or guilty of a lesser charge nothing is reported --- maybe once it will be reported and then everyone is left thinking hes a sexual offender. please let the man alone already-- bonnie hermann

Ok... I am sorry. But there are several things that bother me about this. As I was reading some of the posts... and talking to some former students. It is obvious there was a number of students who asked to be removed from his class. Or quit band pretty quick. Should that not have raised questions to the administration, teachers, and counselors?

Someone wrote we should just get past this.. ARE YOU NUTS?!?!?!

School officials need to held accountable. We can't just pretend/hope this is the only problem.

Even if Mr. Wilson is innocent.. the fact that it has taken this long to address the issue and that it had to be addressed in the legal system is a failure of our schools. Plain and simple. Let's not make excuses or hide-our heads in the sand. These are our kids we are talking about.

To all you people who are saying that this is a big suprise...you are wrong. This has been going on for a very very long time. For all the others who are questioning why no one else came forward before this...you are wrong as well! So many girls have come forward and complained to their principals, teachers, even guidance counselors...yet somehow he always managed to get out of it - whenever he was questioned regarding his behavior with his female students, he would always say that the girls "had a crush on him...and they got jealous because he was giving attention to someone else...and you know how girls are, they get jealous and tell lies" I've known Kevin Wilson for over 20 years now...and this in no way...is a big suprise. I know of many people who have confronted him on this issue in the past, people who were disgusted by his behavior, yet nothing was ever done. This whole thing is way overdue and it's about time that he gets what he deserves. He let his female students dig in his pockets, sit on his lap, fondle and kiss him...he would buy them alcohol and make inappropriate comments about their breasts, nipples, and genitalia. I can only imagine what he got them to do when they were alone. My thoughts and prayers are with his victims...especially his ex-wife and kids...may justice be served.

I can't believe someone called child molestation/rape by a teacher a "skeleton in the closet." If you have skeletons of this nature in your closet, you have as many problems as Kevin Wilson.

I would also direct you to "Police say that other charges have not been filed against Wilson for other alleged sexual relationships with students because of the statute of limitations." It would seem that the police have at least some information of a nature that allowed for his arrest.

And to the person that said a high school female student "knew what she was doing" might just be the most disturbing of all. As a high school teacher myself, I see my kids every day, and that's exactly what they are, kids. They make a lot of mistakes as children, and we accept their mistakes and help them grow as children, but it is often the case they don't "know what they are doing."

We'll see if he's convicted of being a sexual predator, but I know the police sure as heck don't have any information about me that would lead them to arrest me for improper behavior toward my kids.

I respect that everyone has their own opinions on a subject, however, speaking as a former student there definitly is and has been a problem going on here for many years. Why didn't girls come forward 20 yrs. ago, well, if you think that it is any easy thing to do, then you are very much mistaken, and I do not care how old these girls were when something happened to them, he is the adult and being in the postion he was in definitly puts him as the responsible one here, not the student (or should I say the victim).

To "Mary Lou Mauro": I refuse to "move on" until I know what has happened. You're right, this story is disturbing but not because TV6 or The Mining Journal are reporting it. It's disturbing because of its content. MAPS has been flawed for some time. Two of my four children have been assault (one physical and one sexual) in as many years by other students and NOTHING was done when I made the formal complaints. NOTHING. As far as I'm concerned MAPS admins like to quickly sweep things under the carpet rather than getting to the root of the problem. Mr. Wilson is most definitely innocent until proven guilty; however, that shouldn't keep parents from asking questions. How exactly are the administratios protecting our children when they're being assaulted?

To those questioning the victim's motives with coming forward now, after several years. Unless you have been a victim of sexual abuse, you have NO idea the process a victim experiences. Many victims are too ashamed to ever tell anyone an assault took place. I commend the victim from coming forward, that way, if Mr. Wilson is indeed guilty, she will have prevented him from being able to destroy other children through his pedophile actions.

To "James Smithers": Yes, many of us have skeletons in our closets; however, those skeletons aren't pedophilia. To even compare the skeletons of the general public to these allegations is just plain silly.

To those that are reminding others of his family and wife, please remember also that Mr. Wilson's questionable conduct is what has brought this pain onto his family. By questionable conduct I mean that there is, at minimum, enough evidence that led the police to arrest him. They don't arrest on rumors alone. So, perhaps it is Mr. Wilson that should be apologizing to his family members.

To "Paul Sorry": Yes, I have done plenty of things wrong in my life; however, none have consisted of, or come close to these type of allegations. Are you suggesting that this is really just something shameful that Mr. Wilson (allegedly) did and really, no big deal. Kind of an Oops moment? If he did this it wasn't an opps moment; he didn't accidently fall onto the victim and his penis penetrated her. If he did, indeed, rape her it was intentional and he used his authority as a teacher to seek out his victim (or victims.)

This is a sad story regardless of whether the allegations are true, although the victim-blaming implicit in many of the comments below is disturbing. I did get a laugh of out Mary Ann Mauro's comment--the Mining Journal and TV6 have to be about the furthest thing imaginable from the "liberal media." Maybe they're the liberal regular media, rather than the liberal elite media? :)

The UCMJ states that ANY penetration regardless of how slight is classed as rape-A person shouldnt be accused without proof-

First of all we are former students of Mr. Wilson and he was nothing but nice to us and the rest of his students. Yea, he always had favorites but doesn't every teacher?? And how come this woman is just coming forward? It doesn't make sense. And for all of you from twenty years back who say "Finally someone came forward." Why didn't you come forward, ohh... I don't know like TWENTY years ago. C'mon if this is serious she should of said something way before instead of holding onto to it and now ruining his life. As his students and knowing him better then some of you, it is hard to believe he Raped a girl. If he did have sex with a high school student, the girl knew what she was doing, but it was still wrong of him to touch her. We're on Wilson's side for innocent until proven guilty.

I AM A RETIRED BOTHWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER AND COUNSELOR. THEREFORE, I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO TEACH WITH KEVIN WILSON WHEN HE FIRST BEGAN HIS CAREER IN MARQUETTE. I KNEW KEVIN WILSON AS A TALENTED, BUT HUMBLE MUSICIAN, AN EDUCATOR WHO WAS WELL RESPECTED BY STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND PARENTS, AND A TEACHER WHO DEDICATED MANY HOURS TO HIS STUDENTS' SUCCESS IN THE MUSIC FIELD.
IT IS TIME THE LIBERAL MEDIA (NAMELY THE MINING JOURNAL AND TV 6 NEWS) START REPORTING THE NEWS INSTEAD OF "MAKING THE NEWS!!" THE SENSATIONALISM OF THIS STORY IS DISTURBING AND UNNECESSARY. IT IS ALL OF OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ALLOW OUR U.S. JUDICIAL SYSTEM TO DETERMINE THE GUILT OR INNOCENCE OF KEVIN WILSON. PLEASE LET THIS HAPPEN!!!!

We all have our own skeletons in the closet. You people are not even close to giving this poor fella the benefit of the doubt. If he is guilty well shame on him. But the only people that know the circumstances are Mr. Wilson and the complaintants.
Michelle Grengs said it best. Many lives have been ruined by allogations like this.
It will be interesting to see what happens here but until that time I will pray for Mr Wilson as he too is one of God's children. My prayers are with him and all of you that cast an opinion of his guilt.
We shall overcome. Pray for those who are lost from the flock.
God is love.

I am very shocked by this story and hope the truth is found out. Hoever, if this crime happened in 1996 and after reading alot alot of peoples posts that mentioned they were uncomfortable around this teacher, why did no females report anything at all to a parent, principal, or teacher? If this teacher is found guilty he does deserve punishment but i also wonder why this individual was moved from the area high school to the middle school due to suspicions.....

This guy's career is ruined irrespective of if he is guilty or not. The community at large has hung this guy out to dry and already convicted him. I question if the charges are warrented and the "victims" in this case sure waited a long time before bringing complaints. If this guy is found innocent(hardly a chance as the mob is already screaming for his head)I hope a massive lawsuit is filed against all involved!

Guilt or Innocence Isn't the Point Right Now. As people have pointed out... the legal system will determine that, one way or the other.

The point is.. it is obvious that there were questions about behavior that were not addressed by administrators. And the bigger point is, this is not the only teacher concern I have heard from friends, family, and other people in the community. Not all of them are this severe. But the schools have an obligation to the students, parents, and community to make sure that they have a open and safe environment.

Teachers are people too.... they have flaws. The flaws need to be addressed, not covered up. Hopefully this incident addresses those issues!!!

Several things worry me about this story.....

1. If this teacher was moved from a high school to a middle school because of rumors by teachers/students and school board/administration knew about this, shouldnt they be held partially responsible?

2. I mean no disrespect in any way by this, but do alleged rape victims have to be named? I thought i read somewhere that in some states they do.

3. Again, I mean no direspect with this question either but,why did not one student ever mention this to an authorative figure (Principal, teacher, parent). From reading all these posts, it seems several females were often extremely uncomfortable around him and one who even mentioned it was common knowledge not to be alone with him. I would think that if this teacher was allegedly contacting students by cell phone text messaging/AOL Instant Messenger that a parent would feel uneasy about this. If this story does turn out to be true, I do feel bad for all the amazing teachers there are in this world. Everyone remembers their favorite teachers or teachers who inspired them to do great things. I remember Mrs. Hite, Mrs Stevens, and Mr Fleury all amazing teachers who taught in the Gwinn Schools and were outstanding teachers. I do hope this story turns out to be false but bravo to the female who made a very brave step in coming forward, I am just sad that this took place so many years ago and despite all the negative comments about this individual, not an eyebrow was raised.....Again, I mean no direspect to any associated with this school or this event.

This took place back in 1996. My question is why did it take all these years. There could be many reason's why this person didn't come forward sooner. But still with this type of action being reported. The police, and everyone involve have steps to follow. Lets face it. It all could be rumors made about a innocent man. But then again maybe not. Its not up to us to make this call. He is innocent until proven guilty we all know this. So lets stop and think of all the familys,relatives, friends, parents, students and neighbors this involves. We don't know if this is rumors being passed around by a indivual that has had conflict with him before. And if this did occur. Then they will fine him guilty. If he has had other incounters with other students. Hopefully they will come forward also. So please don't pass more rumors or storys. For the sake of all who is involved in this matter. All involve are going thru a horrible time. And that includes me as being a parent to my children who went to Bothwell and the high school in this time frame. Lets remember he is innocent until proven guilty.

Thank you Michelle Grengs! I couldn't have said it better. This is such a sad story on so many levels. The accuser is not the the only "victim" in these cases. Both the school system its employees and the community as a whole suffer. Now is not the time to be spreading rumors or as some have said "cast stones". Let the professionals do their job. Unless we're involved directly we are all on the sidelines. Have faith in the system. If Mr. Wilson is found to be quilty then he will pay a terrible price for his actions. If found to be innocent his life will never be the same. The die have been cast. Either way there will be "victims". I pray for ALL concerned right now.

To those with concerns about TV6 allowing what they believe to be inappropriate comments....... the station has this in their 'terms of use' agreement for posting material.

""Posting information that is unlawful, obscene, defamatory, threatening, harassing, abusive, slanderous, hateful, or embarrassing to any other person or entity as determined by Barrington in its sole discretion;""

People- it's their website- they decide what is or is not appropriate. For a suggestion to TV6, please see KARE11's site (www.kare11.com) where readers can actively complain about posted comments and they are removed for review after three public complaints.

If the man is guilty, let him have his day in court. Til then, be kind. Can you imagine the emotional battle this man's wife is being subjected to. The biggest problem with our society is the fact that we have become a bunch of haters. I too have seen people's lives turned around by fabricated accusations and even when the accusations come out to be false, the people's families, lives, jobs have been devastated beyond repair. Lets try compassion. If found guilty, he will pay and rightly should. My prayers go out to them all. There are too many of you willing to cast the first stone.

dear exchange student.......

victims of sex crimes have their identity protected by law. can you really believe that the police would ARREST someone on the basis of RUMORS???

all the sudden this nastiness has been dumped on OUR doorstep. we thought it would never happen here as we watched case after case unfold across the nation.

hug your children. teach them to trust their intuition. and yes, knowing Kevin personally, i was horrified to hear of the arrest. but suddenly many things became clear........

All of these negative comments! Have none of you done anything wrong - anything that you are ashamed of? I guess not because you certainly are "throwing stones". I feel sorry for Mr. Wilson AND his family! I knew of another teacher that this same thing happened to AND he was NOT GUILTY. It was the kids trying to pull something one him!

Shame on WLUC for allowing all of these postings! Personally, I am done with "the source" - they should not be allowing all of this to happen - these Blogs! It is just crazy!

With the new manager of the station, I thought that WLUC was going in a good direction until I see all of this!

What if Mr. Wilson was YOUR family member! Remember the saying - if you can't say anything good about a person say NOTHING!!

The sad part of this situation is that it very well could cause a whole flood of complaints against other teachers in the district and surrounding districts. Every time a teacher cracks a joke that is taken the wrong way they are suspended. If something truly inappropriate is happening, I have no problem with a formal legal complaint, but many times students will complain about their teachers simply because they are - well - teachers. They make you do work, and you tend to dislike the people that make you do things you'd rather not do. The same thing happened with the Catholic church. One person steps out, possibly having a legitimate complaint, and the rest come out of the woodwork. Often it is valid, but often times it is for money. Having had Mr. Wilson as a teacher, it saddens me to think that people are calling him a predator and a freak before he has even had the chance to say one word. As for the "rumors": There have been many rumors of many teachers doing many different things in class over the years. I hardly would call a middle school or high school rumor a legitimate reason for any kind of action. They can be started as easily as they disappear. In fact, after 12 years, we still have yet to hear a single word from the accuser! All we see is the picture of Mr. Wilson on the TV and in the paper, and the mention that someone accused him of something, and that an investigation by the MQTPD led to an arrest. Seeing how police departments work in small towns, I wouldn't be surprised if it was based of little or no evidence, and simply on the word(s) of former and current middle school / high school students. I wish Mr. Wilson the best of luck defending himself, because having read the other comments, the majority of the public is not on his side. It's a shame that he might not even be able to get a fair trial, because after all this negative publicity labelling him as a monster, it will be hard to find impartial jurors.

Before Kevin Wilson is lynched as a child molester preying on innocent middle-schoolers in the school hallways, first we need to remember that in this country a man is considered innocent until proven guilty. So let him have his day in court to answer the charges. It is up to the prosecutor to prove that he indeed did break the law by having (probably consensual) sex with a 13-16 year old female and used his position of authority. Poor judgment? Definitely. He knew what he was doing was against the law. But a child molester? No way. What makes this situation CSC-I is that she was a minor and he was much older and took advantage of her immaturity by virtue of his position as a teacher. If he is found guilty (and let's leave that to the courts, not mob rule on this website) he will pay dearly for his stupidity. People ask why there was no arrest earlier, since this happened 12 years ago. Easy - no victim legal complaint. Police can't arrest someone based on rumors. Of course, now that there has been a complaint some 12 years later, there is no evidence, just her word against his. While he may very well be guilty, I have seen some innocent men's lives ruined by false allegations from young women. (In my friend's situation, a 14 year old friend of his daughter accused him of rape, he was wrongly convicted, and spent four years in prison for a crime he did not commit.) In addition, a person's general behavior is not a factor in the charge, including his actions toward other students as well as her prior sexual history.

I dont want to sound like the rest of those lame posters talking about how they had him as a teacher and "something just want right", but WOW, is this for real??? I am now 31 years old, and graduated in 1995. Hearing the news from my mom brought surprise to a certain extent and brought back memories of band practice and class. Yes, it is true that he had his favorites.... I remember being beaten out of getting drum major by one of them, but I would never of expected this. Makes you wonder if the "pets" that you knew of at the time were victims.

My prayers to the victims in this situation, whoever they may be, and to his family. I pray that if found guilty, justice is served and healing can begin within the community. I have school age children and cant even begin to imagine what the parents of his students, past and present are thinking.

I knew of the rumors way back when I was in high school 17 years ago. But my main concern is that his lawyer is a MAPS school board representative. Should he really be representing Mr. Wilson in court when he is someone who works on the school board, someone who votes on how the schools are run. Isn't it a conflict of interest?

Just one thing to say- The "rumors" of him doing things with girls were there when I was a kid at Bothwell... Apparently the "rumors" have been there for years.... My one question is "Why was this not looked into years and years ago?" You cannot tell me that another teacher or administrator in any level of MAPS did not hear those rumors- Why?

It is purely insane that a member of the MAPS school board would represent this client! He should be asked to resign his position on the school board or ask his client to find another attorney. How can he possibly give this client the best representation without losing all credibility as a school board member?

As a middle aged parent of two children in "the system" and two who soon will be, I am amazed not only by the lack of teacher accountability, but by the horrid grammar and composition skills of teens who know they are writing comments that the whole community will read. I have two teenage relatives who had this teacher, both female. One says he never did anything that upset her or made her uncomfortable in any way. The other stated, back at the time she took him, that he made her a bit nervous in the way he interacted with her. I really do hope that the justice system works better than the school system did. However, as an American who believes in the "innocent until proven guilty" concept, and as unpopular as it is to say in this forum, I think someone has to note that great volumes of flirting do not prove rape.

If this goes to a jury trial, which would be wise on his part, I hope there is a change of venue. People already have there minds made up.

Concerning Jim Chipman's comment: Yeah, because TV6 regularly pulls information out of thin air to boost ratings. Give me a break. They get their info from the cops and courts and if the cops are still investigating this, do you really think they'd give out all the information they have? One victim has stepped forward and so those charges have been filed. More than likely the investigation is still going on and the cops are working to get more people to step forward so more charges can be filed.

I had Mr. Wilson in 6th grade for my band class. I always thought that they way he would look at the girls in my class was inappropriate. He also taught computers and would send inappropriate things to the students via e-mail. I never had a good feeling about him, I'm just surprised it took this long for him to get caught.

I also agree with Joe. I have tried to complain about very serious issues at the high school and was told by the priciple that I could only deal with the teacher... THE TEACHER WAS THE PROBLEM!!! And no one would take me serious.

Remember... teacher records are able to requested via the Freedom of Information Act. Including disciplinary reports. If you have complained about a teacher... request the file to see if they documented it. I will bet dollars to donuts they didn't.

The next time someone has a complaint and the teacher or administration doesn't take it serious.. get a group together and go to the board meeting. It would be hard to ignore it then!!

In reading many of these comments I am surprised at the guilty until proven innocent concept that many of them are showing. This is the United States people! I am a former student of Mr. Wilson's myself and I don't know what all of these other students saw (or at least are saying now that they saw)that I didn't. I keep reading about this or these victims of Mr. Wilson's crime that this man hasn't even been to court to defend himself against yet. So, we shouldn't be forgetting to use the word ALLEGED when we refer to victim or to Mr. Wilson as well. I'm not saying that Mr. Wilson couldn't have possibly done this either. I'm just saying that I'm certainly not naive enough to base any determination of guilt or innocence on what I've seen on the news or what rumors have been floating around the school and community. With many of the comments coming from former Marquette Area Public School students, perhaps the district should consider a little more extensive lesson plans in the History/US Government Department, particularly to Constitution and Amendments.

This is ONE allegation and it is from TWELVE YEARS AGO. He is innocent until proven guilty. Do you parents of Marquette Students have nothing better to do than to criticize the MAPS school system and how they handle issues? The superintendent has never encountered a situation like this and the board takes their issues case by case. They work with authorities, so it is very possible that the school system was advised to react in the way that they did.
I have heard so many stories of how parents have changed in the past decade and have become almost impossible to work with. Parents, you should be more interested in what your children are doing these days than criticizing teachers and staff about their every move. Sex, drugs, and alcohol are starting to be abused earlier and earlier in students. Rather than support the authorities in the schools, you fight them on everything you can.
If parents would stop doing everything they can to criticize the system and START supporting the schools and doing their part to make a POSITIVE influence in them, maybe Marquette would stop losing so many students to Negaunee.

Being a victim myself, I urge you to
COME FORWARD!!!!!!
You know who you are! He promised me I was the only one...guess that was a lie along with everything else he told me. He's been doing this for far too long to get away with it.
Do what is right.

For the people who didn't read the article correctly, it does state that they are charges from a 13 and 16 year old back in 1996...so yes, the people have to be around 25-18 years old.

in fridays news this guy had sexual relationships with girls. now monday, its one girl from 12 years ago. before publishing a story, tv6 should get the real story first. I don,t know this guy or his supposed victim, but i do know that tv6 loves to jump head first in an attempt to make interesting news stories. tv6 and the mining journal should start getting their facts straight before reporting them.

I had Mr. Wilson as a band teacher all three years of middle school. We all liked him pretty well, he was a cool teacher, but he always had his favorites. We didn't think of it as weird at the time, mostly because we were so young, but he would get our AIM screen names and i.m. us online after school. He had a few phone numbers of some girls in my class as well and would regularly text them. Rumors were always going around about him taking girls out to lunch, or hanging out with them outside of school...but most of us just brushed them off as simply rumors.
From having him as a teacher for so long, and from what I saw and experienced, I know that Wilson is guilty by far. There is no doubt in my mind that he should be behind bars.

I had Mr. Wilson as a band teacher through my 4 years of High School. I was in the core band group. I ate lunch in the band room with a number of my fellow band lovers. We were always the first in for practice and the last to leave. For me, Mr. Wilson was a great teacher. He showed me a love of music that I carry with me today and I thank him for that. In my eyes he is no monster. He was always appropriate with me and the others I knew well.

I am just heart broken over this whole thing. I don’t know if the allegations are true, but I just want them to be a big lie or misunderstanding, but if there is enough evidence to actually charge him, but faith is running low

Ok, is it me or is anyone else wondering how Brogan can defend this guy considering how he is on the Marquette Area Public Schools- Board?

Seems kind of weird to me.

I am not good with words and I know I am going to say something someone will see as wrong and will get virtually beat up for it on this lynch group, but I just feel like I have to say something.

I had Mr. Wilson as a band teacher through my 4 years of High School. I was in the core band group. I ate lunch in the band room with a number of my fellow band lovers. We were always the first in for practice and the last to leave. For me, Mr. Wilson was a great teacher. He showed me a love of music that I carry with me today and I thank him for that. In my eyes he is no monster. He was always appropriate with me and the others I knew well.

I am just heart broken over this whole thing. I don’t know if the allegations are true, but I just want them to be a big lie or misunderstanding, but if there is enough evidence to actually charge him, but faith is running low.

I stand behind his wonderful and amazing wife and kids. If you ever need ANYTHING you know where to find me.

An earlier comment asserted that Kevin Wilson was not "demoted" to the middle school, and referred to the current high school level band director holding a PhD. But I distinctly remember Kevin Wilson was moved from the high school to Bothwell as band director before that. I always thought that was strange, when he had been in charge of three bands at the high school.

I had him for a 6th grade band teacher. He was way to touchy feely for me. He had to be hands on with all the girl students, lets just say like 3 weeks in to school i quit band...

I had Mr. Wilson for two years at bothwell, and both years i had him he was my favoriet teacher. There were always rumors about him but I wasn't sure if i believed them or not. But everyone in my classes always liked him. But there were still people who would say stuff about him also, and the point im trying to make is that theres a possibility that he really is guilty of this, or this could just be another one of the "rumors" that sombody is taking to seriously.

Kudos to the poster who listed the signs of physical and sexual abuse. My daughter, who is now in her 20's, was sexually and physically abused by her step-father 10-12 years ago. She was finally able to talk about it a few years ago. She exhibits every one of those signs and more. Despite extensive counseling, she struggles every day of her life.

The prosecutor's office in Marquette refused to authorize charges (though they believed her story) because of "lack of evidence." To a victim who finally comes forward, (one of the most courageous acts ever), this is one of the worst things that can happen. I'm surprised that this case actually had an arrest. Mr. Wilson's accuser is fortunate that she may yet get her day to face him in court. Blessings to you in your healing.

I have been reading all these comments. Does any one have the respect for his wife how do you think she feels about the situation. I can only imagine how she feels. This comment is mainly for his wife this would really bring a person down to almost nothing. And yes I do know how these girls feel that this stuff happened to. I am also a victim of assult. I just feel really bad all around for the wife and the girls this happened to. My heart belongs to all assulted girls, women. And I also have empathy for wives and family members of predators because we are all victims of predators.

I think that first off, people need to get their facts straight. Mr. Wilson has been teaching computer science for the past few years because of the combining of Graveraet and Bothwell Middle Schools. When they were combined, Bothwell had two band teachers, which was unnecessary. In order to allow the current band director, Mr. Whitfield, to stay on staff, Mr. Wilson opted to teach computers which he was fully qualified to do. If he had not, Mr. Whitfield would have been unemployed becuase he had less years at MAPS than Mr. Wilson and no other subject to teach. He was not forced down to the computer science level because he "is a problem". Also, the current high school level band director holds a PhD and has university level qualifications, but opts to teach at the high school level. So you can say that there is the best qualified individual at the high school level teaching.

Also, keep in mind that Mr. Wilson has two grown children and a wife of a few years. All are extremely nice people who don't deserve to be suffering through the things people are saying. We all need to consider the possiblity that he is innocent along with the possiblity that he is guilty. Either way, many lives are ruined because of what has unfolded and lets wait to get the facts straight before passing judgment.

when i first heard the rumors about this, i was like oh my god you guys shut up thats ridiculus. when the news came out i freaked. Mr. Wilson never in a million years would have striked me as a child molester, not ever! ive known him for 3 years (6-8 grade), and had him as a computer applications teacher for 1 year, and as my track coach. he seemed really great - awesome teacher who got us to understand things, and he was pretty nice. yes he was probably a little more nicer to the girls then guys, but ive found that in pretty much every guy teacher- and there not all perv/rapists, now are they? this really bothers me, because as a student -even as a one of those teenagers who think they rule the world (lol), still have some respect towards our teachers and look up to them even if we dont realize we do. mr.wilson was in a position of authority over us, and the fact that he did this (when i really did not believe he of all people was capable of something anything like this!) makes you wonder about other teachers, and principals, aids, etc. its really kind of scary. Mr. wilson was a great teacher and coach to us (well me at least), but i guess you can never be sure if you know a person. I'd like to think that he didnt do this and people are just making it up, but thats just living in denial. yes i believe it, and i hope mr. wilson gets the punishment that he deserves.
-sadstudent

My daughter was a student a Bothwell. I found the administration very lax and uncaring. She was having issues and I spoke to the principal and hee did not have a care in the world about my concerns. So i removed her and put her in Northstar. Thank god for school of choice. Not only is Northstar attentive but their administrator is wonderful and knows all her staff, students and parents. At Bothwell they did not even know my daughters name. If they don't care about the well being of their students then why should they care about a predator. You know guys its only our tax dollars at work ,what does that say

I made a complaint and loudly voiced my concerns about a man who is employed by the school my children attend. I was promised that the 'problem' would be investigated and I would hear back from them.....That was months ago and no one has made any effort to 'get back to me' ..... Why don't they take things seriously?

I am not surprised that mr. wilson was caught, when i was in his class he sure did favorite the girls the most. i feel sorry for his kids, i kow what it feels like to have a father that has sexual charges against him, my dad has been in prision for many years now,he deserves what he got,can't believe someone would do something like that let alone let it cross through there mind.

Negaunee middle school had a "situation" between a teacher and a 7th grade female student. The teacher is still there. The school board has their hands tied because of one word, UNION! I would guess MAPS had the same problem.

The incident with Mr. Wilson is just an example of larger problems. Just as we read about with police officers, there is a thin-blue-line in MAPS. Teachers and Administrators refuse to be held accountable. A friend of mine had a child verbally assaulted and intimidated by a high school teacher last year. The principal refused to investigate the issue.

I have personally raised complaints and concerns about teacher behavior and lack of teaching in some of the classes... it goes no place.

As far as they are concerned... teachers and administrators can't do wrong. And if you question them, there must be something wrong with you.

I would encourage all parents, students, and community members to report any misbehavior and don't stop until changes are made. This is our school district and it is time we take responsibility since our education leaders won't.

I'm sure that Marquette is not the only school in the area with a pervert. How many more PERVERT TEACHERS, TEACHER AIDS, BUS DRIVERS and CUSTODIANS are there in the area that just haven't been caught yet? Talk to your kids....pay attention...If something doesn't seem right it probably isn't....Everyone needs to wise up and pay attention!

so this happened in 96? why has it taken so long for pple to come forward? if there were all these rumors about this teacher, didnt the parents ever get wind of any of them back then? interesting to see what kind of factual evidence they have. ive read so many pple say about time, like they knew this guy was a molester as fact. if so i think you should have turned him in yrs ago. dont you?

Mr. Wilson is really nice. He would always play music and stuff. I wish he wouldn't have done that stuff because now hes gone from MAPS forever. I go to BMS, and for all of you people that say he does stuff in BMS, he doesn't. It was just in high school i guess. I miss him, but he needs to be behind bars because that is just sick and wrong that he would do that.

-Discusted Student

TV6 has nothing to do with the comments written on their stories. Does freedom of the press mean anything to you people?
I am reading through the comments and have noticed there a very few remarks made defending Mr. Wilson. I had him as a band teacher for 7 years and was almost one of his pets. I thought he was a great teacher and seemed so in touch with us. But in the back of my head I just knew that something wasn't right. None of my other teachers wanted us to hang around them after school. My other teachers didn't ask us over to their house. Luckily I listened to that little voice. I would understand all of the critisism if there was not all of this "I always knew". Congrats to whoever stepped up to stop Mr. Wilson. It is a very couragous thing they did. Whoever you are you are truely a hero in my eyes!

I agree with some of the posters requesting TV6 remove the gossip. What does crack me up though it that the moose incident ruled all news stories for day on the website. Now we have a teacher arrested in marquette and its quickly shuffled to the side. I had to search to find this article to read the comments, because at times the comments are much more informative than the article itself. Innocent until proven guilty is correct, but being arrested for something like this means at a bare minimum there's something really shady going on with this guy. I just find it hard to believe that the moose story is bigger than this, and has attracted more attention (400+ comments). I cop shoots a moose, and he's a murderer. A child or children were molested and there are only 56 comments, and people backing this guy. Looks like he's the worst person in michigan at the moment-lol.

You're comparing apples and oranges when you are saying the rumors about Mr. Wilson and the doctor are related/similar. Not true. Mr. Wilson was investigated AND arrested. The doctor was investigated and NOT arrested. The justice system worked as it was intended. Furthermore, comparing Mr. Wilson to Barack Obama is so silly that it doesn't even warrant a serious answer.

You are out of line by stating those complaining about Mr. Wilson are former students that were behavior problems or weren't his pets. I posted earlier that two of my children have had Mr. Wilson as currently as last year. Neither of my children are behavior problems and BOTH felt incredibly uncomfortable around him, especially my daughter. Neither of my children have ever been "punished" for anything in school. Do you have children that have been taught by Mr. Wilson?

I understand that a teacher making you feel uncomfortable doesn't warrant him or her being fired. However, when there are continued rumors of sexual misconduct by a teacher something should have been done to protect the children.

The idea that the victim is 30 years old misses the point completly. The person that brought this to attention could now be 30 years old. No matter how old the person is now first degree CSC is sexual penetration with a 15 year old or less. That being said, if you knew of things that happened when you were attending where Mr. Wilson was teaching 15 years ago, then moved back to the area where your kid was to be learning at a school Mr. Wilson was teaching at, would you A) Let your kid go there while doing nothing? B) Tell authorities to do an investigation into what you thought was illegal acts by a teacher on young students?

If you choose B you've done well in looking out for your childs safety. Now maybe while looking into some innapropriate comments and acts a month long investigation found that 1st Degree CSC occured with totally different children and arrested the sick individual responsible?

If you've been a student you knew it was only a matter of time. Those who are defending him are only in denial.

1st Degree CSC is sexual penetration with certain age restrictions. However in this case it will be a student of 15 years or less.

This is not a rumor, an arrest after a month long investigation is in no way shape or form a rumor.

I am a 30 year old female that also had Mr. Wilson for band my freshman year in high school. He was the reason I quit band half way into the year. There was definitely an comfortable feeling in his classroom. His "favoritism" of certain female students and his "late hours" with them was more than evident. The rumor mill around his ongoings was less than hush-hush even than.

Several postings have referred to a 30-year old "victim." Did I miss something? The only two article I've seen made only general references to "allegations that Wilson had sexual relationships with female students while employed with the school district." He has been at MAPS for 20 years, but nowhere does the article indicate the current age of his victims. Some say they're in their 30s. Not necessarily, so we need to stop with the knee-jerk reactions until it comes out in court. Both my daughters were his students in the early- and mid-90s, and his behavior toward some female students even back then was inappropriate, though not illegal. Apparently his behavior since then has ALLEGEDLY (no proof) escalated to fit a CHARGE (again, no trial yet) of CSC I, which includes at least 10 variables, such as age of the victim, position of authority, etc.

I am NOT a fan of any child-molestor, nor do I support, in any way, inappropriate behavior toward children!

That being said, I think the lynch mob in this community should put away their torches and ropes before convicting this guy! Rumors are just that...rumors and should not be considered fact. The guy who might be our next president has been rumored to be a terrorist, a muslim, and..."the anti-christ." Millions of people, hell, even the main-stream media have reported on these rumors. There are websites and YouTube videos promoting these rumors. Are they true, simply because people say their true? C'mon...you don't believe any of that crap do you?

What makes the situation with Mr. Wilson any different? Maybe he's guilty, maybe he isn't. All we've seen is a news story or two in the paper and on TV about an investigation and an arrest. There has been no trial, no evidence presented, and no opportunity, thus far, for a defense to be presented! What would you do if an accusation was made about YOU, and your name and reputation was dragged through the mud? What if you were innocent?

How about the doctor that was "rumored" to be involved in the murder of that young girl a few years back? His career was ruined, his reputation was ruined, and all kinds of people in the community were out for his blood. Turns out, he had absolutely nothing to do with it. The same thing might happen in this case.

From what I've read on this board, the only ones complaining about Mr. Wilson were those students who either weren't his "pets," or from his former students who appeared to have behavior problems and had to be punished for acting up. IF there were so many "pets" over the years, you'd think there'd be a TON of complaints, and a TON of allegations.

Relax people. Reserve your judgement of others until you've heard all of the evidence. Don't be so quick to react. Something like this is very serious and can ruin one's life.

My best advice is to say a prayer for all victims of child molestation, and for the family of the accused in this case and let the justice system do its job.

This is highly inappropriate for TV6 to allow the rumors, specuation and small town gossip mongering to occur. No, I'm not a Wilson friend/family member. Yes, I believe in letting the justice system take its course.

TV6 should not include a gossip forum on its website. It discredits TV6's news coverage and encourages U.P residents to spread rumors and to hurt families with careless words. I'm going to find a different news source. By the way, I do not have a connection to this story. I felt the same way when I read postings on the moose story. I will not visit the TV6 website again. Shame on our local news station for not promoting the best interests of our residents. The TV6 staff who work hard to bring us balanced news coverage should recognize that this has gotten out of hand and bring up the issue with management. It must be embarrassing for you to show your face on TV when you know this is going on behind the scenes.

This will be one of the most commented news items if TV6 does not edit out all submitted comments.There is a lot more to this situation?

As a former student, I know what is being spoken of. He was my band teacher all through middle school, and believe me, he did not act inappropriatly only while in high school. To the person who wrote the comment about students and mothers throwing themselves at him, well, how exactly would a 11-13 yr. old have known how to throw themselves at someone inappropriatly if not being encouraged to do so? I am in my 30's now, and no, there may not be a lot of physical evidence left behind, but I am positive there is a ton of mental evidence out there. There probably were a great number of students that were not affected by him, (lucky for them),but think about the amount of time he did teach, and just how many probably were!!!! He left a very long trail of troubled young girls in his path. Do not be afraid to tell your story if you have one. It is the right thing to do for yourself and for this situation. You might be surprised when looking back in your life, just how much it did change you and the outcome of your life. It does not matter how long ago it may have happened.

First and foremost I want to express my thoughts and prayers for Mr.Wilsons’ family. This situation is so unfair and will subject many victims to the scrutiny of public opinion for many years. Let us not forget his family and alleged victims and their ability to live peacefully in our community.

To MAPS, I would like to say that it might wise to consider reading through these posts and releasing some sort of comment. There are many mentions of negligence…from janitors, to teachers which are most certainly damaging the reputation of MAPS. It does not bode well that students from many years ago, living in different communities are willing to leave posts about the inefficiencies of the school system.

I currently live in Marquette and have for four years, I do not have children and was not raised here, however, the number of children, family’s, parent’s, current and past teacher’s, and administrator’s I have come in contact with over the years have been significant. Each time I have been gob smacked at the negative comments people have to say about the school system. In one instance I encountered staff that worked for the school system but would not allow their children to attend the schools.

I don’t know if it’s a matter of budgetary restraint, lack of knowledge, or inability to change perception. However, it seems that there has been a significant lack of effort by MAPS to ensure an orderly, effective school system, which works to create healthy relationships with students, families, and residents. If MAPS was successful in offering students and families positive educational experiences, we would not be reading blogs posted by past students who are saying that “it’s about time”.

I am saddened that this system is so obviously damaged, in addition to the fact that it seems the administration has put forth little effort to repair itself for the betterment of the students who attend these schools. Shame on the administration for being so laissez-faire…YOU have a responsibility to educate, protect, and grow our students. Your system has most certainly been broken….so fix it!

that my girls weren't among his 'favorites'.

now i challenge MAPS to weed out the other teacher(s) that have formed inappropriate bonds with their students. you know who you are........

To those of you that are defending Mr. Wilson, it is admirable that you are standing up for due process and not guilty until proven so in a court of law. What is not admirable is the fact that Mr. Wilson is not the victim here. The true victims are those that he preyed on, whether they "threw themselves" at him or not as previously mentioned. He is an adult and the fact is that it is innappropriate and illegal to make sexual advances towards a minor. He used there insecurities for his own personal sexual gain. A normal person does not participate in these activities, only a sick predator.
As far as MAPS is concerned, I do find it to be very concerning as a mother of middle school girls (thankfully, not in Marquette) and a former student of Mr. Wilson, that this has been known and not addressed sooner. Our responsiblity is to protect the innocent not the guilty.

MAPS have covered up Mr. Wilson's "problems" for years. How else do you explain a teacher being demoted from HS band director to MS computer teacher? I had him for 8 years and always knew something wasn't quite right with him. Yes he was very good looking. Yes girls would through themselves at him. THAT DOES NOT GIVE HIM THE RIGHT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THEIR TRUST! In HS he would always offer us rides and invite us out to eat after school. COME ON!!! As for the comments of it being someone in their 30's...WHO CARES! He was arrested and charges has been brought against him. There must be profound proof of what everyone that ever had him as a teacher suspected. My kids do not attend MAPS but I know that if my daughter was ever put in that man's class I would immediately pull her out. To the parents of his most recent students, TALK TO YOUR KIDS!

Either TV6's account of Wilson's age is incorrect or this picture was taken years ago:

http://www.mapsnet.org/pages/kwilson/

I've read repeatedly about the 30 year old victim; however, it appears that some commenters here are forgetting that the above article states "female students" and the Mining Journal article said "multiple victims." http://miningjournal.net/page/content.detail/id/517143.html Honestly, I don't give a rip if this happened yesterday or 20 years ago...a child molester has no business being a school teacher.

To Missy Smith, how can you be certain he didn't molest anyone in his middle school classes?? That's a pretty bold comment to make when you don't have the facts of what happened. Furthermore, it doesn't matter if it happened 20 years ago. He was a person of authority that preyed on CHILDREN. The fact that one of his victims may be an adult does not diminish what he (allegedly) did. It was (and still is) illegal for an adult to have any sort of sexual relationship with a child. Lastly, blaming the victim and making comments about her "pursuing him" is just shocking and appalling. How dare you blame the victim. HE was the adult here. I don't care if some 11-13 year old child was throwing herself at him. HE knew better. HE knew it was not only wrong but it was illegal. You should be ashamed of yourself for trying to place blame on his victims (remember, this is plural; therefore, more than one victim.)

I had him for band in 6th and 7th grades and then again in 9th-12th grades. I never particularly liked him, but I didn't dislike him either - he never bothered me. He never struck me as the type to go after middle-schoolers, though - it was always junior and senior boys and girls who hung out in his classroom during lunch and after school and drove his car around a lot - the quintessential teacher's pets, if you will. Nothing ever happened during the middle school years, but I saw a lot of inappropriate behavior during high school years. However, nothing really stood out as being illegal, and I assumed the administration already knew about it. It was only after I graduated that I started hearing the rumors about affairs with students. However, until he's proven guilty in a court of law, they remain just that. It will be interesting to see how this plays out, more out of morbid curiosity than anything ...

I had Mr. Wilson for band from 6th through 8th and then 10th through 12th grade until graduating 16 years ago. I am in my 30's as well and I likely went to school with the accuser. I had a close relationship with Mr. Wilson, but it never felt like anything other than a teacher/mentor relating with his student/protegee. I never once felt his behavior was inappropriate with me or with other students. I was never creeped out or felt uncomfortable, nor did I ever hear any comments like that from my classmates - all through my school years, from kids older and younger than myself. Certainly it would be terrible if something untoward happened with a student, and teachers involved in such acts should be removed from school and prosecuted. I hope that this student or students receive justice, but I am going to reserve my judgment of Mr. Wilson unless or until he is proven guilty in a court of law.

Mr. Wilson, although a good band teacher, always seemed to have his "favorites" in class. This was 12 years ago at MSHS...

It is very troubling that parents were not notified long before it hit the media. Both my daughter and my son have had Mr. Wilson as a teacher. Both state he was "very creepy." My daughter (had him last year) told me that he made her feel very uncomfortable.

I would like to know if the rumors that are going around are true. Were there allegations of sexual misconduct at MSHS years ago that caused him to be moved by administration to the middle school??

To the person that commented that his victim is now in her 30's. Does it really freakin matter how old she is now if he is a child molester?

The sad part of it is there is no physical evidence-

I had Mr. Wilson as a band teacher at bothwell for 2 years, and he treated me terrible as well as other male students. Who might have been a threat to what he was trying to accomplish. He used to single me out in class and made me write sentences over and over. Also a friend of mine had to sit in the back of the class with his head facing in a cupboard for the entire class period. Also recieving a 5 for citizenship grade for the 2 years I was in his class.
I would like to see Mr. Wilson stick his head in a cupboard and write sentences in his jail cell "I will not sexually assult any other girls"

You know what's sick about this whole thing? Couple things.

1)Marquette Public Schools has yet to take Mr. Wilson off their staff page on their website. Why I ask?

2)Compare Mr. Wilson webpage to other teachers and it makes you wonder why this guy was not caught years ago. It's creepy!

You would think the public schools would be responsible enough to make sure there was no more access (website) to this child predator once they removed him back in September....and we are supposed to put out faith in the public school system? Good thing there is school of choice. They must have been too busy grooming the ski team for states again because that is more inportant...puke!

I hope Mr. Wilson is put away for a long time for these disgusting acts!

I don't really have much to say about the whole Kevin Wilson thing.  There are over 50 people that I know who have known things for years.  The only thing that I have to say is that I really hope that this doesn't result in an attack on the whole school district.  When things like this happen there are people who decide that there are multiple cases and decide it's the school's fault.  I am sure after the legal procedures are followed that the school district will be happy to provide some answers.  Let's let the legal team do their job and trust that the schools are doing their best to protect and teach our kids.  There have been questions about him for some time now and, like I said before, there are a bunch of us who have known for years...they have to have enough evidence.  We wouldn't want someone who isn't guilty going through this and ruining their whole teaching career.  He's going to have to pay for a long time now.  In the end, try to remember what great and dedicated things that your teachers in Marquette have done for all of us over the years...if you need someone to focus on...let it be the man who deserves it.

Such a perfect example of how inept the Marquette Public School System is. There were rumors about Mr. Wilson back when I had him as a teacher over 15 years ago. I don’t recall, however, an administrator ever coming into his classroom to observe his conduct in the 4 years I had him as a teacher. What really strikes me, as being particularly negligent, is that he was transferred to the middle school after his inappropriate behavior in the high school. The administrative think tank that came up with that idea should be seriously questioned and reprimanded.

You are right to say that when a child has pink eye or lice a letter goes home right away. However, those things are proven facts. Schools do not send a letter home when a student mentions an itchy head to say "some student MIGHT have lice." When this investigation began about a month ago it was not a proven fact that Mr. Wilson had done anything. He had not been arrested or charged. What if the school had sent out a notification only to find out that Mr. Wilson was NOT charged in the end? It would have caused a frenzy for no good reason. He was, however, removed from the school during the investigation. It is only right that the school did not set off alarms until they knew for fact that there were charges filed.

For the record I just want to say that I was a student of his for 5 years. I had him as a teacher both at Bothwell and MSHS and participated in marching band. Neither myself nor any of my friends experienced any inappropriate behaviour towards us by him. He was an excellent band teacher and worked very hard to make us a band that Marquette High School could be proud of. I agree that if these allegations end up being true, it is disgusting and un-forgivable. However, I hope parents of his most recent students understand that he has taught hundreds of kids and no one I know well (male or female)in my years of being in his class has ever been hurt or coerced by him. We can't pass judgement until we know ALL of the facts...which we don't.

Yes, as one person below commented..The accuser is allegedly 30 yrs. old. But if you've been a part of this school district for any amount of time you knew Wilson was a predator and a very slick one. I'll be curious to see how many other women and girls have the courage to come forward. If you were a student, it was common knowledge never to be alone with him.

When my mother called me to ask if I remembered him and told me he was in the paper, she asked me if I could guess what he would be in the paper for. My first guess was child molestation. I remember my little sister telling me that her friends were hanging out with him. I thought it was weird and inappropriate. I am glad that he has finally been caught. If he is found guilty I hope that he gets the maximum penalty. NO CHILD should EVER be victimized. I pray that his family has the courage to be strong. They have a rough time ahead.

I feel for Wilson's wife and all of his students because I am quite positive that this probably wasn't the first time he has had contact with his students.

I also hate to say that I'm not surprised about this. Last year, the high school had some sort of activity with the residents at the Jacobetti Home and a couple of the girls were working with a convicted sexual predator (for 1st degree and he served a long time in prison for it) Now, the school was clearly lax on who they permitted around students for projects, I have wondered since then how else they are lax with who goes in and out of the schools for volunteering etc. Additionally, the school never notified any of the parents of these children and they also did not know that their daughters would be working closely with a pedophile.

Additionally, one of their janitors was a foster parents for years, but his and his wife's license was pulled for "inappropriate" relationships with their foster children. The school actually knows about this and moved the janitor to a school with younger kids. To me this is a liability issue-the school is well aware of his actions, yet hasn't properly dealt with it.

Regarding the Wilson guy, someone else posted something about Norway- I would like to know what happened there and what sort of record he had there- parent and administrative evaluation wise. I have a hard time believing these charges are the first incidents he had with students. I don't think so- that is not a pedophile's pattern- unfortunately.

Makes me wondering what is going on in the Marquette School system and the whole issue of liability needs to be addressed, as well as security measures and protocol.

I have a child who attends Bothwell Middle school for the second year, and we are both VERY upset and bothered by this situation. Our children are supposed to be SAFE around teachers. They have been directed for years, as a matter of fact, to go to a teacher if there is a problem. I think the parents should have been notified sooner in order to potentially talk to our kids and get them some guidance sooner.
I also would like more information on this case. I always do pray for the families of both the victim, as well as the predator. It has got to be a difficult thing to face as the wife of the sicko. I pray for all of the students and their families, who have been affected (which are a lot) by this man. Hopefully he has a LONG, LONG, time to sit in a tiny prison cell and reflect on the freedom that he has no more.

Why was this being done for so long right under Mike Angeli's nose, and he did nothing?Students have known for YEARS!

I totally agree with the 'Well Well Well' post.
It was no secret (even though he tried to keep it that way) that he would fool around with his students. Now that this is out, hopefully more victims will come forward. He definitely needs to do time for this, it's just sick and wrong!

Well i must say, it took long enough. I first had Mr. Wilson for band in 6th grade. He was my teacher all three years of middle school and then got transfered to high school band instructor when i started high school in 1990. I dropped out of the band in 11th grade cuz i hated the fact that i had to be in marching band....anyhow, his "teachers pets" were very well known about even back then. If the student body knew the rumors of his relationships with students...how is it he is just now getting arrested for it?

I honestly know nothing about this case...or the teacher. But I did search Bothwell and Mr Wilson on yahoo and found a picture of him. He does not look even CLOSE to 49 years old....was that a typo?? Seriously the picture I found he looks early 30s. Maybe the pic I found isn't the right guy...anyone know??

Sounds like a Priest to me, the sicko.
When these kids are molested by a Priest, they sue the church. Now these kids can sue the school.
More taxpayer money

I do not know this man, but my comment is that the school district has acted according to it's policies and has been helping in the investigation. Please remember that in our country, a person is considered innocent until proven guilty. Keep your comments positive and supportive of the famiilies that are involved-including his spouse, she is a great person. There are no winners here.

Mr. Wilson is not a monster. He did not molest his students in his Middle School classes. He was very professional and I had him as a private music teacher. He was both my middle school and high school band teacher in MQT. Yes, in the High School there were many students and mothers of students who would throw themselves at him. He did not seek out his students. If he is guilty, it was wrong, but we are talking about 20 years ago. Why didn't you come forward sooner? You need to own up to your part in pursuing him. It is wrong that he crossed the line but many men would have had a very difficult time saying no to 17/18 year old women who are throwing themselves at them. There are many students he has not been inappropriate with and he was a wonderful teacher to have. Stop making him a monster.

When i had him as a teacher at Bothwell (9 years ago) there were always rumors about things like this and him. I really wish i could say i am surprised, but if you were a student around him you always heard rumors...

How frustrating to read that this has been going on over such a long time period. If everyone knew about it, why was it not reported sooner? Many innocent children could have been spared this ordeal if previous victims had reported it and/or been taken seriously if they did report it. I feel very sorry for Mr Wilson's family, they are also victims here and a sign in his yard as someone previously suggested, would humilitate them... hopefully his sorry a** will be in jail so wouldn't even see a sign! Hopefully past victims of him will come forward, and let's let the legal system deal with him. Prison is not a great place for child molesters!

This guy is a monster. Innocent until proven guilty? Are people serious. He was arrested because the investagation showed he was a monster.

Send him to Jackson and let bubba have his way with him.

Let's also not forget this guy was only charged with 2 counts, who knows what is going to come out of the wood work.

Lock this punk away and let him look at a prison cell for the next 40 years.

I feel no sympathy for him.

Why is TV6 allowing these defamatory gossipy web postings to happen? Report the news. Let the defamatory, mudslinging, name calling people who think they know it all (the web posting people) gossip in their mean spirited break rooms at work. This style of communication (web posting) is gossipy at best, with the lowest of standards put forth by TV6. TV6 should report the news period.

As far as this case is concerned, allow the LAW to take care of it. Innocent until proven guility - this is the law of the land. Judge not, unless you are judged too!

This is not the only story where this has happened. The Jim Bjorne/Moose story was also allowed to get out of control by TV 6.

maybe that's why he left norway school district to go to marquette heard he was doing the same thing way back then

To this poster: "Was this the band teacher?

Posted by Jon Doe, Marquette - Friday, October 17, 2008 at 11:41 p.m.

Was this the guy that used to teach band at Bothwell in the 80's and at MSHS in the early 90s?"

Yes, it was. And I had him as a teacher all through middle school (Bothwell) and 3 years at MSHS. I'm SO glad I wasn't one of his "favorites"... anyone who had him as a teacher then, knows what I mean. I'm sad for his kids and family, but he deserves everything he gets.

I believe this to be something that happened back in the early 90's while he was a highschool teacher. The student would now be in her mid 30's. Not quite the middle school - 40 year old connection people are jumping to on here. Not that it makes it OK, it just is a different situation than is being portrayed.

The school district should not say anything at this point, people are innocent until proven guilty. They did take action by relieving him of his teaching duties even before he was arrested.

mr wilson always seemed alittle strange at school. but we never reallly expected something, only being like 6th or 7th graders. in 8th grade we neverr had him. but anyways. he always would just act alittle to strangeee..or be too close for comfort.
anyways. im glad he finally got charged for what he did wrong

There really is only one thing to say.... it's about time. If you had him as a teacher you already knew about this. At least when he was at MSHS. This isn't a big surprise. The only thing that is suprising is that it took this long for people to figure it out!

Actually, go to badbadteacher.com and they have thousands of cases related to this.

I understand parents want to be notified right away, and that is very understandable. However, he wasn't arrested until Friday, and so I'm not sure legally if they can put a letter out any earlier than that. It would be horrible if they put a letter out stating this happened only to find him guilty (which I am in no way saying he is) but that would be a horrible situation. What were the students told back in September when they took him out of the classroom?

I have to agree with the other parent below,we as parents should of been notified right away!!My daughter had Mr.Wilson for computer class.A letter is sent home right away when a child has lice or pink eye,but something like this and everything is kept to be a secret,hmmmm????Well,sorry but if this sick crazy man can do something like this then he deserves to have his name posted everywhere.Including a big sign in his front yard,pig!! I think maybe the school distict needs to start thinking of the other families and children this has affected.Now it makes you wonder if your child is really safe at school??

I encourage anyone who has a child who was one of his students to ask the hard question, did anything ever happened to them. If your child was one his student aids during the past 20 years it is probable that something inappropriate happend to them. Please guide them to get the help they need!! Don't underestimate the power he had over them to keep their silence. He was very good at what he did!!! He was a predator to the extreem!!!
.

is this video going to be posted on the internet? It really should; I would like to see this. He was my band teacher for three years, I can't believe this happened.

Was this the guy that used to teach band at Bothwell in the 80's and at MSHS in the early 90s?

The last person you need to feel sorry for is good ol' Mr. Wilson. For someone to single out a young lady who may have low self imgage, or not enough attention at home is the true definition of a monster.

This STUDENT is in her 30's...

I pray for his family. I know his wife and she's absolutly wonderful. Please remember that others are affected by your words. I pray that he is innocent because young people should be protected at all costs.

wow, he was my bestfriend and i's computer teacher i can't believe he would do something like that, he was so nice and one of our favorite teachers. But he always seemed a little strange. It makes me really grateful that this did not happen to me or any of my friends, it really makes me sad how some desicions can lead to life changing events such as this one. I fell sorry for mr. wilson and he should have made better choices. Sincerly Kendall Pogue and Tori Hill ):

I am wondering if the school district is planning to inform parents, whose child may have had this man teaching their computer classes, when this situation was actually happening. I want more information, and as a parent of a child that was exposed to this sick man, I believe we deserve to know the truth now.

This is happening all over the country. Go to www.schoolteachernews.com and click on the Scandal page. They have documented over 370 of these types of incidents since just the beginning of 2008.