High School Drama Teacher Resigns Following Allegations of Battery

A drama teacher at Corona del Mar High School, who was on administrative leave since June following battery allegations, resigned over the summer and will not be returning to the classroom, a school district official reported this week.

Ron Martin, who taught at CDMHS for nine years, has been under investigation by Newport Beach police and the Newport-Mesa Unified School District since a student accused him of battery. On Monday Laura Boss, district spokeswoman, said drama classes will continue despite Martin's absence.

"The award winning drama program at Corona del Mar Middle/High School is an important part of the school culture," Boss said. "A new drama teacher has been selected and she will be in place to support the program for the new school year."

The Newport Beach Police Department's investigation into Martin remains open.

"The case is still open and detectives continue their investigation," Jennifer Manzella, police spokeswoman, said. "No arrests have been made at this time."

Boss said the N-MUSD will continue to cooperate with the police investigation.
 
"The case is now in the hands of the criminal justice system," Boss said.

Manzella said the alleged battery did not include weapons. No charges have been filed against Martin.

Click here for today's top stories on Newport Beach-Corona Del Mar Patch.