Authorities say a Morris County middle school principal tried to sexually assault a 16-year-old former student.

Paul Iantosca was suspended from his post at Valleyview Middle School in Denville following his arrest, which was announced Friday.

Morris County prosecutors say the 52-year-old Randolph resident "engaged in acts" with the student, but did not disclose further details. He's charged with luring, child endangerment and attempted sexual assault.

Parents outside the middle school say that they were shocked to hear the news.

“He was funny. He would always care. Just the other day…I dropped [my daughter] off and he was out front and he gave her a fist pump and just said 'Good morning.' That's the character that he was,” one parent told News 12 New Jersey.

Iantosca was well known in the school community, leaving some parents to wonder what this incident teaches their children.

“What do I tell my child? Do I tell her that you can’t trust anybody?” the parent asked.

Denville school officials say none of the alleged activities occurred on school grounds and did not involve any students who currently attend township schools. They say Iantosca is barred from school property and cannot have contact with any staff or students.