Former Celina ISD Teacher Accused of Secretly Recording Students Indicted on Federal Charges
Child Sexual Abuse
Caleb Elliott, a former Celina ISD teacher and coach, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on eight counts of sexual exploitation of children. Seven charges involve producing child pornography of children, and one charge covers attempted sexual exploitation. Each count carries a potential sentence of 15–30 years, with life imprisonment possible under related state charges.
Details of the Allegations
Between April and October 2025, Elliott allegedly “employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced” children to engage in sexually explicit conduct for visual depiction using the internet and personal digital devices. Court documents do not provide further specifics due to the secrecy of grand jury proceedings.
Prior Arrests and Evidence
- Early October 2025: Arrested for invasive visual recording.
- One week later: Arrested for possession or promotion of child pornography.
- Earlier this month: Arrested for sexual performance of a child (second-degree felony).
Investigators recovered 12 photos from Elliott’s phone showing young boys in varying states of dress, meeting the legal definition of child pornography.
Professional Background
Elliott, 26, taught 6th-grade history and coached 8th-grade football at Moore Middle School. He was placed on indefinite administrative leave following the initial charges and later resigned. Civil lawsuits have also been filed against Elliott, his father Bill Elliott (longtime football coach), and Celina ISD for alleged negligence and failure to protect students.
Why Safe Recruitment Matters
This case highlights the critical importance of thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and clear reporting mechanisms when hiring school staff. Schools must ensure that personnel entrusted with children’s safety are carefully vetted and held accountable.
Lessons for Schools
- Supervision and Digital Safety: Staff should never have unsupervised access to students in private areas, and digital devices should be monitored appropriately.
- Mandatory Reporting: Schools must train employees to identify and report suspicious behavior immediately.
- Culture of Accountability: Schools should create an environment where both students and staff feel empowered to raise concerns safely.
Call to Action
Parents, educators, and administrators should:
- Advocate for stricter safety protocols and background checks.
- Educate students about safe reporting of inappropriate behavior.
- Support affected students and ensure access to counseling or mental health resources.
Conclusion
The Caleb Elliott case is a reminder of the risks students face when staff misconduct goes undetected. Beyond pursuing justice for the affected children, schools must prioritize student safety through careful recruitment, vigilant supervision, and a culture of accountability. Taking proactive steps can help prevent future tragedies.
