SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — School officials and police are investigating after students reported that a substitute teacher at Northview Junior Academy made comments referencing a firearm and possibly issued a threatening statement while in class.
According to Tony Ogle, assistant superintendent for Sevier County Schools, the incident was reported around noon Tuesday.
Students told school officials that the substitute teacher made a reference to a firearm and may have made a threatening remark associated with it while in the classroom. Ogle said the exact details remain unclear because accounts of what occurred have varied.
“The exact nature of this incident was not immediately clear based on mixed reports,” Ogle said.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the allegations, school administrators acted quickly.
Ogle said the substitute teacher was immediately removed from the classroom to ensure the safety of students and staff. School officials determined the substitute did not have a weapon in his possession.
The substitute was subsequently directed to leave campus and has been barred from entering school system property while the investigation remains ongoing.
School staff notified the school’s resource officer as well as the Sevierville Police Department, which confirmed Tuesday afternoon that it is investigating the incident.
In a statement, Sevier County Schools said administrators contacted the parents of students who were present in the classroom to explain the situation and answer questions.
“We regret any concern this incident may have caused, and we remain firmly committed to the safety and well-being of all of our students and staff members,” Ogle said on behalf of the school system.
At this time, no criminal charges have been filed. Authorities have not released the identity of the substitute teacher, and the investigation remains active.
