CLARK CO., Ohio -- A Clark County teacher accused of raping a high school student appeared in court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty.

Clark County Sheriff Gene Kelly said a Greenon Local School District teacher was arrested on charges of rape, sexual battery and gross sexual imposition.

The sheriff has identified the suspect as Michael Allen Markeson, 28, a drama club teacher at Greenon High School.

Authorities said the alleged crime happened June 5 and involved a high school student. According to the Sheriff, Markeson met the boy in an Enon store and hired him to do odd jobs at his home. Markeson allegedly sexually assaulted the boy while he was in his home.

Greenon Local Schools Superintendent Lori Lytle said a decision on Markeson’s future has not been made yet.

She said she plans to announce the districts course of action on Wednesday.

“They’re entrusted by the public, parents and society,” said Adam Brann from Urbana.

Markeson will be in court at 10 a.m. to formally face the charges of rape, gross sexual imposition and sexual battery.

A Clark County teacher was suspended hours after he was formally charged with raping a high school student.

However, several people stepped forward and defended the educator.

Michael Markeson was released from jail after he posted bond. He appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the rape charges.

Defense attorney John Paul Rion said, “This is one of those cases where the whole story to come out to understand whether a criminal violation occurred or not.”

Markeson is accused of raping and sexually assaulting a Greenon High School student at the educator’s home in Enon.

His wife was at home when detective arrived on Tuesday and arrested him. Rion said she was shocked and stunned when it happened.

“Knowing him as she does, the allegations do not fit his character,” Rion said.

Markeson’s pastor also defended the 28-year-old, saying the congregation will stand behind him.

Pastor Jeffrey Mohr of the Enon United Methodist Church said, “We will continue to support him through the process and love and care for his family.”

Rion urged people to hold judgment against the lifelong Clark County resident, saying the father of three deserves fair treatment.

Greenon Schools’ Superintendent Lori Lytle released a statement on Wednesday and said Markeson has been suspended from his duties while the case works through the system, and is prohibited from going onto school property.