Teacher background check policies

HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) - Portsmouth Public Schools are recommending a change of policy following 10 On Your Side's story about a teacher with a criminal record.

Mikhiel DeBraux is still employed by the Portsmouth school system. He passed an initial background check, but 10 On Your Side alerted a school spokesperson to his lengthy rapsheet: two DUIs, public intoxication, and assault and battery charges.

"Portsmouth Public Schools does not have a written policy requiring employees to notify the division of criminal charges brought against them during their time of employment. An addition to the existing personnel policy which addresses this issue will be drafted and recommended to the School Board for approval," said Portsmouth Schools Foundation Executive Director Maureen Mizelle in a written statement to 10 On Your Side.

It's a policy other cities already have in place, including Newport News and Virginia Beach.

"Any employee is supposed to notify the superintendent in writing no later than the first day after they're arrested or the warrant has been issued," said Michelle Price, Newport News Public Schools spokesperson.

An arrest isn't grounds for termination, but hiding one is. Price said Newport News works closely with local law enforcement.

"We can run a background check anytime we suspect some kind of criminal behavior," said Price.

A spokesperson with Virginia Beach City Public Schools said school employees in that city are also required to notify the superintendent of any arrest.

A Chesapeake Public Schools spokesperson said they also work closely with local law enforcement.

10 On Your Side is waiting to hear back from Suffolk, Norfolk, and Hampton regarding their policies.