VALDOSTA, Ga. – A high school teacher and coach in Valdosta is facing serious charges after being accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a student.
Derrick Yarbrough, a math teacher and golf coach at Lowndes High School, was arrested on June 5. According to the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), he is charged with sodomy, child molestation, and sexual assault by a person in a position of authority.
The alleged misconduct reportedly occurred over a six-year period between January 2018 and January 2024. Authorities say Yarbrough is no longer in the classroom and is currently being held in the Lowndes County Jail.
The arrest has raised concerns among parents, many of whom said they were shocked and upset to learn about the situation through social media rather than official school communication.
“This should never happen,” one parent said. “They need to let everyone know what’s going on. I live five minutes away and didn’t hear anything.”
Another parent added, “As a former middle school teacher, this could’ve involved any child. It’s disturbing and heartbreaking. So many trusted him.”
In 2025, Yarbrough had been honored by students with the Golden Apple Award — an annual recognition given by graduating seniors to educators who made the biggest impact on their lives.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not confirmed whether Yarbrough will be granted bond.