Hamilton County Schools offering support relating to sexual abuse case

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Hamilton County Schools District released a statement following the arrest of a first-grade teacher for sexually abusing students. They are offering support to students, families and faculty who may have been impacted from this incident.

“We recognize this can be triggering to current and past victims of abuse. Counselors will be available to any student, family and faculty that needs support,” the school system said.

They are urging anyone who needs counseling or other support in relation to this incident to call the Hamilton County Schools (HCS) support line at 498-KIDS (498-5437).

HCS says anyone who has been the victim of any other sexual abuse to contact the national sexual abuse hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

In addition, HCS asks anyone with information regarding this case to contact the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (423-622-0022).

The school system says if you know a child who might have information that can help in this investigation, call the Department of Children’s Services (877-237-0004).

They concluded their release with a statement: “As always, the safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority, and we will work with the District Attorney, law enforcement, the Children’s Advocacy Center, and our counselors to address the needs of our students to the best of our ability. Hamilton County Schools will continue to utilize every means possible to protect the students entrusted to us and to provide them with a safe and supportive learning environment.”