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Gregory Charles Okretich, an English and TV Production teacher at Heritage High School in Brevard County, has been formally reprimanded by the Florida Education Practices Commission (EPC) following allegations of inappropriate comments and behavior toward students during the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years. The disciplinary action, finalized on April 18, 2025, stems from a settlement agreement addressing violations of professional conduct standards.

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According to the administrative complaint filed by Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr., Okretich directed inappropriate remarks toward female students, including comments about a tenth-grade student’s appearance and suggesting another student remove her top to attract viewers during morning announcements because she had a “beautiful chest.” Additionally, Okretich allegedly instructed a female student to act seductively toward a male peer for a performance exercise, causing embarrassment. The complaint further alleges that Okretich retaliated against a student who reported his conduct by removing her from an on-air position and publicly calling her out in class.

The EPC found Okretich in violation of Florida Statutes and State Board of Education rules, specifically for failing to protect students from conditions harmful to their learning environment and for intentionally exposing a student to unnecessary embarrassment. As part of the settlement, Okretich neither admitted nor denied the allegations but agreed to disciplinary measures to avoid a formal hearing.

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Under the terms of the settlement, Okretich has been placed on probation, with conditions including completing an “Ethics in Education” course, paying a $750 fine, and covering $150 annually for probation monitoring. He must also provide the Department of Education with employment details and performance evaluations, comply with all school regulations, and perform his duties professionally. Failure to meet these conditions could lead to further sanctions, including potential revocation of his educator’s certificate.

The EPC’s final order, issued on April 18, 2025, emphasized that educators must uphold a high standard of leadership and integrity. The commission stated, “The Commission cannot condone any act that bears negatively on the profession’s integrity, nor can the public who employ us.” A letter of reprimand has been placed in Okretich’s state certification file and sent to the Brevard County School Board for inclusion in his personnel file.

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