MANITOWOC, WI — A former employee of the Manitowoc Public School District entered a not‑guilty plea on Thursday to two serious felony charges involving a 15‑year‑old student. Courtney Haupt, 33, was accused of making unwanted sexual advances toward the teenager while she worked as a special‑education para‑professional at Lincoln High School.
Charges and court proceedings
Haupt waived a preliminary hearing and pleaded not guilty to grooming of a child for sexual activity and sexual misconduct by a school staff member. No trial date has been set; the court scheduled a status conference for Dec. 22 to determine next steps.
Police investigation
According to the Manitowoc Police Department, a report was filed alleging that Haupt made unwanted sexual advances toward the 15‑year‑old. Investigators said they uncovered a pattern of behavior that qualified as grooming, meaning the adult allegedly sought to establish a relationship with the minor for sexual purposes.
Police emphasized that, based on their findings, they do not believe any illegal acts occurred on district property. The alleged conduct is said to have taken place outside of school facilities.
Community response
The case has drawn concern from parents and community members who stress the importance of protecting children in educational settings. While the investigation is ongoing, local leaders have reiterated their commitment to a safe learning environment and urged anyone with information to cooperate with law‑enforcement.
Legal context
Wisconsin law treats grooming and sexual misconduct by school staff as felony offenses, reflecting the state’s strong stance on safeguarding minors. If convicted, Haupt could face significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record, which would also preclude future employment in any school system.
Next steps
The Dec. 22 status conference will allow the court to address pre‑trial matters, including potential discovery, bail conditions, and scheduling. Until a trial is held, Haupt remains presumed innocent under the Constitution’s due‑process protections.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and the Manitowoc Public School District has indicated that it will cooperate fully with the investigation while maintaining focus on the educational needs of its students.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
