Former ‘teacher of the year' gets 30 years to life for sexually abusing students
Jacqueline Ma, a former San Diego County 'Teacher of the Year,' was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison on May 9, 2025, for sexually abusing two elementary school students.
The sentencing occurred at Chula Vista Superior Court after Ma pleaded guilty in February 2025 to four felony counts: two counts of forcible lewd acts on a child under 14, one count of a lewd act on a child under 14, and one count of possessing child sexual abuse material.
Pattern of grooming, betrayal
Ma, 36, abused two sixth-grade boys, aged 11 and 12, at Lincoln Acres Elementary School in National City, California. The investigation began in March 2023 when a parent discovered inappropriate messages between Ma and their 12-year-old son.
A second victim, abused in 2020 at age 11, was later identified. Prosecutors stated Ma used gifts, food, special attention, hidden apps, and 'vanish mode' messages to groom and communicate with the victims. Evidence included love letters, a photo of one victim in Ma's wallet, jewelry with his initials, and child sexual abuse material.
The abuse of one victim spanned 10 months, with assaults occurring in Ma's classroom over three months.
Tearful apology in court
During the sentencing, Ma delivered a tearful apology, stating, 'I abused my authority, deceived these boys and their families, and ripped away their childhood.' She acknowledged disgracing the teaching profession.
San Diego Superior Court Judge Enrique Camarena described the crimes as a 'prolonged pattern of child sexual abuse.' Deputy District Attorney Drew Hart reported that one victim's mother was 'speechless' upon learning of the abuse.
District Attorney Summer Stephan called the 30-year sentence appropriate. The victims' families did not attend the hearing.
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