Teacher accused of sending nude photos to student

ALEXANDER COUNTY, N.C. — An Alexander County teacher is out of jail on accusations she texted nude photos of herself to a student.

Students at Alexander Central High said they were shocked to hear news of the arrest.

The school district has launched an internal investigation and suspended the teacher with pay.

With her husband at her side, Nikki Icard didn't answer any of Eyewitness News’ questions as she turned herself into police.

Since 2005, the 29-year-old has taught math at Alexander Central High School. Police said on Friday they got a tip from a student that she had sent nude photos of herself to an 18-year-old student at the school.

“It is a different kind of case. It is very odd for this,” said Detective Sgt. Lisa Johnson with Taylorsville Police. “It is sad that a teacher has an inappropriate relationship with a student like this, whether it is male or female."

At the school Tuesday, students were stunned by the arrest.  Police said they believe the texting started a year ago but they said they only learned of the allegations four days ago.

“It just shocked me,” student Anna Cane said. “I couldn't see her doing that. She was really a nice person."

“Sending pictures is just terrible. I can't believe it,” student Melinda Lucas said. “Shocking and I can't believe it happened at my school.”

Police said Icard was not only the student's math teacher, but also his senior adviser. They believe several other students saw the photos.

“It shouldn't happen,” mother Carla Damron said. “They are older and they should know better, you know what I mean.”

Icard is out of jail after initially being held under a $10,000 bond. She is scheduled to go before a judge on June 3.

WSOC