McKenna Kindred, a 25-year-old high school teacher from Washington State, was sentenced to two years of probation for engaging in sexual activity with a 17-year-old student at her house while her husband was away on a hunting trip. Initially charged with first-degree sexual misconduct and communication with a minor for immoral purposes, Kindred pleaded guilty to amended charges of second-degree sexual misconduct with a minor and communication with a minor as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. In addition to probation, she was ordered to pay fines and fees and must register as a sex offender for 10 years.
The abuse came to light in December 2022 when students reported to school officials that they believed Kindred was involved in an inappropriate relationship with the 17-year-old student. Messages on Instagram between Kindred and the teen were shared with investigating deputies, indicating that the relationship was intimate and inappropriate. Kindred initially claimed to be the victim of online harassment accusing her of inappropriate relationships with students, but further investigation revealed the truth behind the accusations.
According to court documents, Kindred invited the 17-year-old boy to her house while her husband was out of town on a hunting trip in November 2022. The boy’s mother confirmed to investigators that her son had engaged in a sexual relationship with Kindred. The boy himself disclosed to authorities that he had been communicating with Kindred on Instagram since June 2022 and that they had engaged in sexual activity at her house.
During her court appearance, Kindred expressed deep remorse for her actions, acknowledging the pain and consequences she has caused to those involved. The boy’s mother described Kindred’s behavior as predatory and an abuse of power, stating that Kindred had started grooming her son when he was 16. Kindred resigned from her teaching position following the allegations and has been out on bond since her arrest.
Despite pleading guilty and facing probation, fines, and sex offender registration, Kindred’s attorney was not immediately available for comment on the case. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries between educators and students and the severe consequences that can result from inappropriate relationships, especially those involving minors. Victims of sexual abuse can seek support by contacting crisis counselors through the Crisis Text Line.
