Ex-‘Teacher of the Year’ Sentenced to 30 Years for Grooming Students

It was a dramatic day in a South Bay courtroom as a former teacher confessed to her crimes.

Jacqueline Ma was once named “teacher of the year” before it was discovered that she was committing sex crimes against two young boys.

“I am speaking today because I am guilty of my crimes and I’m deeply ashamed of my actions,” Ma told the courtroom through tears. “I violated my original commitment to be the kind of teacher all parents hope their children will have.”

Ma confessed to her crimes against two young boys, saying she deeply regretted the pain and suffering she caused at Lincoln Acres Elementary School in National City.

“I ripped away their childhood instead of following the path of what a teacher should be, I let my selfishness overrun the boys’ best interests,” Ma said.

In 2022, Ma was recognized as one of San Diego County’s “teachers of the year.” But in the spring of 2023, the mother of a 12-year-old boy found sexually explicit messages between her son and Ma, including one where Ma told the boy she was in love with him.

After the mother reported it to police, investigators discovered that Ma had not only been buying gifts for the boy, she had also been having a sexual relationship with him.

Police later found evidence that Ma also groomed an 11-year-old boy years earlier, but it ended when she took off her shirt in front of him inside a classroom. Prosecutors say he left the classroom out of fear.

“I just pray for an extra hand of protection and strength to all of those I’ve hurt. I’m so sorry,” Ma said during the sentencing.

The victim’s family members did not speak during the sentencing, but the prosecutor relayed their feelings about the crimes against the two children.

“Finding out that they were abused by someone who they trusted with their children, and to care for their children, was incredibly devastating to both mothers and both families,” said Deputy District Attorney Drew Hart.

Ma was given 30 years to life in prison, meaning she will not be eligible for parole for 30 years. She must also register as a sex offender.