Florida Teacher Resigns After Explicit Video-Chats with Jail Inmate from Classroom

A Florida teacher has resigned amid controversy after explicit video chats with her incarcerated boyfriend were discovered—conduct that took place on school grounds during teaching hours. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office began monitoring inmate calls, and an assigned staffer noticed that 52-year-old Donna Barber was engaging in sexually inappropriate conversations while at work—disrobing during video calls from her classroom office. (The Post Millennial, International Business Times)

Sheriff A.J. Smith addressed the situation publicly, stating: “You are in jail, this is not some kind of resort … If you decide … to expose yourself, this is what’s going to happen: we’re going to expose you.” He defended his decision to alert the public by sharing a screenshot and commentary via Facebook, which he later removed after receiving inappropriate remarks. (The Post Millennial, International Business Times) However, the State Attorney’s Office determined that her actions did not constitute a criminal offense since they involved consenting adults. (The Post Millennial, International Business Times, meaww.com)

Despite the lack of criminal charges, the school district initiated an internal investigation. Facing likely termination, and being only months away from retirement after nearly 30 years in education, Barber opted to resign. “She has been an excellent educator,” said the Franklin County superintendent, expressing regret that the situation had occurred and forced administrative action. (The Post Millennial, meaww.com)

This incident highlights the delicate balance between personal freedom and professional boundaries—especially in environments where trust and appropriateness are paramount. Though no laws were broken, the breach of workplace conduct prompted swift administrative consequences and raised important questions about personal behavior during school hours.