Ex-LI Teacher Had 'Inappropriate' Interactions With Children: Supe

RIVERHEAD, NY — A former Riverhead High School teacher turned himself in on Friday in New Jersey after reportedly having "inappropriate conversations and interactions" with children online, officials said.

In a letter to Riverhead families sent out Saturday, Interim Superintendent of School Cheryl Pedisich said "Ryan McCaffrey, a former Riverhead High School teacher, turned himself in to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s office on Friday, February 14, 2025, on charges stemming" from the alleged interactions with kids.

According to News 12, New Jersey police reportedly said that McCaffery, who lives in Ridge, asked the children, both under 13, for "naked photos and performed sexual acts while video chatting with them."

News 12 also reported that one of the incidents happened in 2022.

"Mr. McCaffrey had resigned from his position with the district earlier this month, citing personal reasons," Pedisich said. "It is the district’s understanding, based on conversations with law enforcement, that none of these charges are related to Mr. McCaffrey’s prior work as a teacher in the Riverhead School District or any interactions Mr. McCaffrey may have had with any student in his classes or any other child enrolled in the Riverhead School District."

Bergen County Police could not immediately provide additional information.

"We understand news of this sort is upsetting to parents, guardians, our Riverhead School District faculty and staff, and the greater Riverhead community," Pedisich said. "The safety and well-being of our students is always our highest priority. We find deplorable the actions and behavior Mr. McCaffrey is accused of, and will be cooperating with law enforcement in any ongoing investigations."

She added: "When and if any additional information becomes available that can be released to the public, we will of course update the community."