JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - A Jacksonville High School teacher facing felony charges of indecent liberties with a minor is out on bond this afternoon.
Investigators say 33-year-old Christopher Howard had sex with a 17-year-old female student.
Howard had been working as the band director at Jacksonville High School since 2001. He was also the director of the school's creative arts program.
He's originally from Salisbury, went to college at East Carolina University, and was also named Jacksonville High's teacher of the year in 2010-11.
Last month however, an Onslow County Deputy found Howard in his car with a 17 year old girl, which prompted the investigation. Authorities believe the relationship may have started back in 2007 after a band concert.
Howard was arrested Wednesday morning at Jacksonville High School. He is charged with sexual activity by a teacher with a student and taking indecent liberties with a student.
Howard's next court apperance is scheduled for July 12th.