MOUNT CLEMENS (AP) -- A Detroit-area culinary arts teacher accused of engaging in sex acts with two students has pleaded guilty to lesser charges.
Thirty-two-year-old Melissa Lavender pleaded guilty Monday in Macomb County Circuit Court to two counts attempted aggravated stalking of a victim less than 18 years of age.
Police say the South Lake High School teacher inappropriately touched two male students, then 16 and 17, during a June 26 party on a boat belonging to a former student's parents.
Lavender originally was charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. Messages seeking her current employment status were left for Superintendent Deborah Thompson.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 29.
A message seeking comment was left for defense attorney Michael Dennis.
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