Barre Town, VT – An unsettling incident at Barre Town Middle & Elementary School in Vermont has put a spotlight on school safety and drug awareness after a 47-year-old substitute teacher was cited for bringing cocaine onto campus.
On October 1, Melissa Martin, a permanent substitute teacher employed by the Barre Unified Union School District, was found in possession of cocaine during her teaching shift. This violation has raised serious concerns among parents, school officials, and community members alike.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
According to Chief William Dodge of the Barre Town Police Department, the situation unfolded around 10:49 a.m. when a student alerted staff about Martin’s unusual behavior. EMS and local police were promptly called to the scene.
“The incident was reported to school staff after a student noticed Martin’s unusual behavior,” a police spokesperson said.
- Martin admitted to school administrators that she had cocaine in her jacket pocket inside the classroom.
- Police conducted a search using K9 Lakota, who alerted to narcotics on Martin’s jacket and backpack.
- A white substance found tested presumptively positive for cocaine.
- Martin was cited for possession of cocaine and reckless endangerment.
The substitute teacher was removed from the classroom immediately, and authorities secured the area. The quick action of the student and school staff helped prevent further potential risks.
Community Reaction and School District Response
The news has deeply affected parents and students. One mother shared with NBC affiliate WPTZ,
“He looked visibly shaken and upset and I asked what had happened today and he said that his substitute teacher was clearly on drugs and was acting crazy. Those were his exact words.”
Superintendent JoAn Canning confirmed that the teacher is no longer at the school while personnel protocols are being followed. A district representative was not immediately available for detailed comment.
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Implications for School Safety and Future Measures
This incident at Barre Town Middle & Elementary School raises critical questions about background checks, drug policies, and monitoring procedures within educational institutions.
Experts emphasize a need for vigilance and clear procedures to safeguard students. As reported by the Barre Town Police Department and covered in the source report, swift collaboration between students, staff, and law enforcement can mitigate potential harm.
For more detailed updates and community reactions, visit People’s coverage.
Key Takeaways
- Substitute teacher Melissa Martin was cited for cocaine possession and reckless endangerment.
- Incident reported promptly by a student leading to quick law enforcement response.
- School district is following personnel procedures; teacher currently not at school.
- Community expresses concern for student safety and calls for strict policy enforcement.
What do you think about this incident and school safety measures? Share your thoughts in the comments below!