Fairfax County Teacher Arrested for Sexual Assault of Two Students

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — John Barger, a 47-year-old teacher from Springfield, was arrested on February 7, 2025, for allegedly sexually assaulting two students at Fairview Elementary School. Barger has been charged with two counts of aggravated sexual battery and remains in custody without bond.

The arrest follows a report made to Child Protective Services on January 17, indicating that Barger had assaulted a student. Although the first student was not injured, detectives discovered that Barger had committed separate assaults against two students during their investigation.

Barger has been suspended since the allegations came to light and was initially placed on administrative leave while the investigation took place. He has worked for Fairfax County Public Schools since 2017.

According to police, the investigation revealed that the alleged incidents occurred on different occasions. The Fairfax County Police Department has not disclosed specific dates or further details about the assaults, as the investigation is ongoing.

“We expect that anyone who works with children is focused on their safety and well-being. When that trust is broken, it deeply affects us all,” said a spokesperson for Fairfax County Public Schools. The spokesperson emphasized the district’s commitment to supporting affected students and families during this difficult time.

The county police have urged anyone with additional information regarding the case or similar incidents to reach out to the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option “4.” An anonymous tip can also be submitted via Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-8477.

Barger’s arrest comes as the second incident involving a Fairfax County teacher within a week. A substitute teacher from Dogwood Elementary School in Reston was charged for inappropriate conduct involving a student during school hours, intensifying concerns regarding safety in local schools.