A second-grade teacher at Spotswood Elementary School and her husband were arrested Thursday after the school resource officer noticed she was under the influence of drugs.
As part of the investigation that followed, narcotics were allegedly found in her classroom.
The teacher was identified as Candyce Leigh Carter, 35, of Spotsylvania. She was arrested by Spotsylvania County authorities on charges of felony possession of Schedule I/II drugs, felony child endangerment and felony neglect or abuse of a child. She was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail where she is being held without bond.
During the incident, Carter’s husband, 34-year-old Kristopher Carter, was found in the school parking lot under the influence of suspected narcotics and requiring medical attention. A 2-year-old was also found in the vehicle.
Kristopher Carter is facing charges of felony child endangerment and felony child neglect or abuse. He was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail under a $5,000 bond.
The sheriff’s office issued a statement that no Spotswood Elementary students reported injuries or exposure but were checked by medical personnel “out of an abundance of caution” and the classroom was professionally cleaned. During the incident, the sheriff’s office was assisted by the Spotsylvania Social Services Department and school administration.
Spotsylvania school officials said they are thankful the resource officer was alert, and that the school staff, including bus drivers, came together quickly to ensure the safety of the children.
“I am glad for the heroic efforts of our personnel that stepped up and took care of the situation immediately,” School Board Chair Lorita Daniels said.
Lee Hill District school board representative Lisa Phelps said on Thursday there was a heavy presence of firetrucks and police at Spotswood when she became aware of the incident.
“It was a very scary situation for everyone,” she said.
Phelps said the issue is symptomatic of a larger drug problem in the community. She called for school officials and leaders in the community to step up and be proactive in addressing drug use in schools.
“I know there is a presence of drugs in our schools with adults and children alike,” Phelps said. “I expressed my concerns publicly at school board meetings repeatedly.”
Phelps said in 2019, the school division had a student-driven campaign against drugs. She said something similar should take place again to get students and staff refocused on the issue.
“I’ve seen it in action where it made a difference,” Phelps said.
The next Spotsylvania School Board meeting is Monday, but there is no public comment on the agenda. Phelps said board members may discuss Thursday’s incident.
“Us elected officials, with the help of the community, we need to be tougher on those who disregard the safety of others,” Phelps said.
