Authorities have accused a Dripping Springs Middle School teacher of sending students inappropriate images on social media and also providing them with nicotine and THC vapes.

The teacher, identified by the Dripping Springs School District as Kevin James McLean, 30, was also an on-campus track coach who had worked there since August 2020.

District officials said McLean passed a national fingerprint-based background check required for all employees.

According to the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, a report that McLean had inappropriate communication with students was filed April 27 with the Austin Police Department. McLean was then placed on administrative leave. The Sheriff’s Office and the Dripping Springs School District have since been investigating the report.

Investigators learned that McLean sent students inappropriate images through the social media app Snapchat. They were also told that McLean provided the students with nicotine and THC vapes.

On Thursday, seven arrest warrants were issued for McLean: four counts of selling, distributing or displaying material harmful to a minor, which is a Class A misdemeanor; and three counts of distributing a controlled substance to a minor, a second-degree felony.

McLean will not return to any campus or school district property because the district had previously received and accepted his resignation unrelated to the recent allegations, officials said.

“Dripping Springs ISD is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all students,” district officials said in a statement. “The District continues to partner with law enforcement to help keep the children of the Dripping Springs community and all Texas students safe.”

Authorities arrested McLean on Thursday and he was taken to the Hays County jail where he was awaiting a hearing.

Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler used the case to urge parents to monitor their children’s use of phones, tablets and computers.

“Unfortunately, such circumstances are occurring as more and more people have access to the latest technology,” he said in a statement. “However, it is paramount to understand the importance of safe use.”

Anyone with more information on the case should call Sgt. Mark Opiela with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office at 512-393-7896 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-324-8466. Tips can also be submitted online at Tip Line P3tips.com or on the Hays County Sheriff’s Office application.