St Helens High School teachers have been arrested after an investigation of allegations of s*xual abuse. Erix Stearns, who taught choir at the school, was arrested last Tuesday after being under investigation for about two months. The school's principal Dr. Katy Wagner is also under investigation amid the concerning issue.
According to KGW, the school district was aware of the ongoing investigation of Stearns for the past two months, yet he was still teaching. A retired St Helens High School teacher named Mark Collins is also facing multiple charges of s*x abuse.
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Besides the two, detectives are also investigating a teacher at a middle school for criminal conduct that involved students. The teacher's identity is currently under wraps as the charges that he is facing are still unknown. Amid the scandal, students and parents are also angry with Dr. Katy Wagner.
According to her LinkedIn account, Wagner went to Pacific University for a Bachelor of Science in 1998. She also did her MAT in music and science from the same university. Later, in 2013, she opted for a Doctor of Education in neuroeducation from the University of Portland. She has also done a course Women in Leadership from the prestigious Cornell University.
Ahead of St. Helens High School, she worked as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Portland and as a Vice Principal at Portland Public Schools. She was also a Vocal Music Teacher at Beaverton School District.
Why police are investigating St Helens High School Principal Dr. Katy Wagner?
According to the reports, Stearns and Collins were accused of abusing nine students. Despite knowing about the investigation, St Helens High School Principal Dr. Katy Wagner did not act on it. The Oregon Department of Human Services is investigating the allegations of neglect on Wagner's part.
Besides Wagner, St Helens Superintendent Scot Stockwell has also been placed on administrative leave. Moreover, St Helens School District Board Chair Ryan Scholl has also resigned from his position. An acting superintendent will be soon appointed by the school district.
Outraged by the negligence of the staff and school board, students at St Helens High School walked out of their classes on Thursday morning. Their parents and community members also joined the protest.
Per KGW, a parent said,
"More just keeps coming out, and it's really unbelievable,"
A meeting is scheduled for November 25 at 6:30 p.m. for the school district to appoint an acting superintendent.
More details about the investigation are awaited.
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