A former psychology teacher at Douglas County High School was sentenced to 300 days in jail this week after he pleaded guilty to groping a 17-year-old student.

James Christopher Thomure, 57, was proctoring an exam for three students in a classroom at the high school in May 2024 when the groping occurred, authorities said. After two students finished the exam and left the room, Thomure reportedly groped the student and attempted to kiss her and suggested they meet at a park and engage in sexual activity, according to a news release from the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

The student reported the incident to an adult, who contacted the Douglas County sheriff’s office. The student’s account was corroborated by classroom surveillance footage.

In court, the student read a statement, in which she said the experience has stayed with her for years. She said she looked up to Thomure, trusted him and admired him, particularly how he spoke about his family.

She said the whole ordeal left her with anxiety and guilt.

“I am proud that I chose to stand with myself, with others who have spoken out, who are afraid to speak out, or are unsure if they should,” she said.

Thomure was fired by the district following the incident. In addition to the 300-day sentence, he will be required to complete eight years of intensive sex offender probation as part of the plea agreement.