Yonkers Gym Teacher Faces Charges for Inappropriate Conduct

A gym teacher from Yonkers Middle High School, Matthew Houseman, 59, has been accused of making troubling comments towards a female student, referring to her as “bitter” and suggesting he wanted to use a dog collar he was holding, according to prosecutors.

Houseman was arrested on multiple serious charges, which also include an unsettling inquiry to Yonkers police about whether he could “send my daughter.” Westchester County District Attorney Susan Kakers has stated that inappropriate romantic advances were directed toward the girl.

“Child exploitation and abuse will never be tolerated by my administration, whether it’s here or elsewhere,” the prosecutor emphasized. She added that the welfare of vulnerable residents, especially children, must always remain a priority.

The alleged misconduct began at least as far back as October 2024. The District Attorney’s Office reported instances where he mentioned trading unpleasant remarks involving his family. Most notably, he is accused of calling the girl derogatory names while holding the dog collar in February, insisting she wear it.

In addition, he reportedly kissed her on her birthday that same month. Earlier in the year, he also texted her, expressing confusion and concern over a lack of communication after a dance. For example, he asked, “Hello, are you angry at me? I felt blown away by the dance; I didn’t hear from you all weekend.” Then he went on to question if she was avoiding him due to a new boyfriend.

In April 2025, he allegedly sent her a message saying he could give her “motion sickness” and mentioned being a “stalker” if he managed to get her class list.

He expressed frustration about the student hugging a teenage boy. Reports suggest that he limited access to his classroom and admitted to having romantic feelings for her, despite recognizing that it was inappropriate.

While the victim’s age is not publicly clarified, Houseman’s role as a teacher covers Grade 11, serving students from 6th to 12th grade. He is facing multiple charges, including harassment, and has pleaded not guilty in Yonkers City Court.

The judge granted a temporary protective order for the victim, but Houseman was released since the charges did not qualify for bail. His attorney, Joseph Tock, opted not to provide comments when approached, and the Yonkers School Board has been contacted for a statement.