Overview

• Jacqueline Ma, 36, was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing two sixth-grade students in her care.
• The former San Diego County Teacher of the Year admitted to grooming one boy, beginning a sexual relationship with him at age 12, and sending explicit messages to another boy, starting when he was 11.
• Ma used hidden messaging apps, directed students to delete communications, and manipulated them with gifts and special programs to facilitate her abuse.
• The abuse came to light after the mother of a 12-year-old victim discovered explicit messages and reported them to police in early 2023.
• At her sentencing, Ma expressed remorse, acknowledging the harm caused to her victims, their families, and the community, while the judge condemned her actions as a prolonged pattern of abuse.