Waris Grant, 37, was arrested at the school he works in after a police investigation revealed the teacher had allegedly paid a 16-year-old boy for oral sex.
The accusation came to light after the boy told his parents about the encounter, police have revealed.
It is unclear when the transaction took place or how Grant knew the victim, who remains anonymous because he is a minor.
However a police source has revealed that the victim is a 16-year-old boy and, whilst he is not one of Grant's students, is enrolled in the public school system.
The art and music teacher has been charged with promoting prostitution, a criminal sex act, and acting in a manner injurious to a child, according to cops.
During an interview with police, Grant - whose long-term partner passed away several years ago - reportedly confessed to the claims, according to News 12.
Whilst he has been reassigned to work away from children for the time being, the teacher - who has worked at the Brooklyn school for four years - will still be paid his almost £48,599 salary.