Sentencing set for CdM teacher

Chad Edward Smith, the Corona del Mar High School math teacher arrested for giving marijuana to a Newport Harbor student last year, will face sentencing for his crime in December.

Smith has resigned from his post, Newport-Mesa school district officials said. He pleaded guilty last month to a felony charge of giving marijuana to a student younger than 14.

As part of a plea agreement with prosecutors, Smith will have to stay out of legal trouble until Dec. 9, when he will be sentenced. He’s expected to avoid jail time.

Smith, a 37-year-old Newport Beach resident, was arrested in June at his home after police got a tip that he might be smoking marijuana with a student.

Police had gotten a call from a concerned Newport Harbor High School parent, who said their son’s phone had a text message from Smith referring to smoking together.

Police contacted the teenager, who confirmed his mother’s suspicion, police said in June.

Corona del Mar students described Smith as a teacher most were friendly with, who blurred the lines between instructor and friend.

Authorities said Smith met the student through a random encounter at a restaurant.

After the tip, officers searched Smith’s home and found a small amount of marijuana, police said.

Officials said it appeared he had met with the student on more than one occasion to smoke pot.