Uniondale High School teacher arraigned on rape charge

A Uniondale High School teacher accused of raping a minor was arraigned Friday, court records show.

Lionel Harvey, 38, is charged with first-degree rape involving a victim under the age of 13.

The alleged victim is not a student at the school, according to a source close to the case.

"These are serious allegations and the Uniondale Union Free School District will cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies, including the Nassau County District Attorney's office and Nassau County Police," the district said in a statement.

Further details were not immediately available from Nassau County prosecutors.

Harvey, who was represented by Legal Aid, pleaded not guilty in First District Court in Hempstead, and an order of protection was issued for the victim, records show.

Bail was set at $150,000 bond or $75,000 cash. Harvey and his attorney could not be reached for comment.

Harvey is due back in court on May 5.

The district's website shows Harvey has taught AP World History at the school.

The district said it wasn't aware of the criminal case until the arraignment. Harvey will not be allowed on school grounds "for the duration of the district attorney's investigation and related proceedings," the statement said.

"The safety of our students is our first priority, and we will take all appropriate action to ensure that our school district remains a safe and protective environment for our children," the district said.