PALMYRA, Neb. — A southeast Nebraska sixth-grade teacher has been arrested after authorities say he had an illegal sexual relationship with a former student.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office said Cody Pester was arrested Monday after investigators reviewed thousands of text messages and phone calls between Pester and an 18-year-old former student who recently graduated from Palmyra.

Authorities said the relationship became sexual within a timeframe prohibited by state law. Nebraska law bars teachers from engaging in sexual relationships with students who were enrolled in their district within the previous 90 days.

In a letter to parents, District OR-1 officials said Pester has been removed from the classroom and all extracurricular activities.

Dear Panther Families and Community Members,

We are writing to inform you that Cody Pester, a sixth-grade teacher at Palmyra Junior/Senior High School, was arrested this morning on suspicion of an inappropriate relationship with a former student. 

Upon receiving this information, the District immediately removed Mr. Pester from all classroom and extracurricular duties, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they continue to conduct their investigation. 

We understand that news like this can be upsetting for students, families, and staff. Counseling and support services will be made available for students at the high school who may need them in the coming days, and families are encouraged to reach out to school administrators with any additional concerns.

The safety and well-being of our students remains our highest priority. While this situation is deeply concerning, it is also important to remember that this is an active investigation, and we must allow the legal process to proceed. For that reason, the district will not be able to share any additional details at this time.  

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office has a press conference scheduled for tomorrow morning (Tuesday, January 27th) and additional details regarding this case will be made available at that time. Please note: The specific time of the LSO press conference was not finalized as of the distribution of this information.

Families or students who may have additional information regarding this case are encouraged to reach out to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s office at (402) 441-6500.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate this difficult situation with compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to our students and community.

Sincerely,

Mr. Michael T. Hart 

Superintendent of Schools.