April 15, 2024 

TCSS Students, Families, Faculty, and Staff,

I wanted to make you aware of some upsetting news that you will likely hear about in news reports or on social media. Today, a member of the Tuscaloosa County High School faculty, Lorenza Freeman, was arrested and charged with an inappropriate relationship with a student. Mr. Freeman has been placed on administrative leave and will no longer be on the TCHS campus. Any further information regarding the charges against Mr. Freeman will come from the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, as this is a law enforcement investigation.

The Tuscaloosa County School System has high expectations for all faculty and staff. We expect our employees to conduct themselves professionally and with honor. Please know that TCSS takes all reports of wrongdoing – whether by staff or students – seriously. TCSS cooperates with law enforcement and works to ensure all matters are appropriately resolved. The safety and well-being of students is our number one priority, at all times.   

Please understand that privacy laws govern information a school district can share regarding students or matters involving employee investigations. Just because we do not discuss details of a situation publicly does not mean it is not thoroughly investigated or taken seriously. 

We realize situations like this are very upsetting to our entire community. Students, please know that school counselors are here to support you, if you need someone to talk with. Also, if you ever have a safety concern to report, please remember our Speak Up for Safety confidential tip line.

Speak Up for Safety email address: speakup@tcss.net

Speak Up for Safety - call or text: (659) 734-2808

We strive to keep our families informed, and will share any other necessary updates, if they become available. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out directly to the TCSS Superintendent’s Office.

Sincerely,

Dr. Keri C. Johnson

Superintendent

Tuscaloosa County School System