News Summary
The South Carolina State Board of Education is facing serious concerns regarding the suspension of educator certificates tied to alarming legal issues involving multiple teachers. The cases include charges of child abuse and drug-related offenses, prompting urgent discussions about student safety and the integrity of the educational system. The board’s rapid response reflects a commitment to ensuring a safe and accountable environment for all students as they navigate these troubling circumstances.
South Carolina Educators Face Certificate Suspensions Following Serious Legal Issues
In a disturbing turn of events, the State Board of Education in South Carolina is grappling with the suspension of educator certificates for a handful of teachers embroiled in serious legal issues. This unsettling news comes as officials assess the implications for student safety and the integrity of the state’s educational system.
Rebecca M. Schroyer Under the Microscope
The spotlight now shines on Rebecca M. Schroyer, a 47-year-old former principal at Ocean Bay Elementary School in Horry County. Schroyer found herself in hot water after being charged with two counts of failing to report child abuse or neglect. The allegations leveled against a special education teacher at her school were nothing short of shocking, including reports of:
- Rubbing hand sanitizer into a child’s open wound.
- Dumping a child out of a chair.
- Smacking three students on the back of their heads.
- Leaving children unattended for hours on end.
Despite the seriousness of the accusations, Schroyer had her charges dismissed by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office in April 2024, which cited a lack of evidence for prosecution. Following this decision, the case was handed over to the State Department of Education for a thorough review of her educator credentials. Faced with the possibility of suspension, Schroyer requested a hearing but ultimately opted for a consent order that resulted in a public reprimand regarding her certificate.
Another Educator Faces Suspension
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, Aaron G. Musick, another educator from Horry County Schools, found himself in legal trouble after being arrested on drug charges back in March. Musick was charged with:
- Manufacturing drugs with the intent to distribute.
- Possession of narcotics near a school.
His arrest stemmed from the discovery of a white powdery substance found on school property. Following his arrest, Musick resigned from his position, and the school district promptly implemented a summary suspension, citing concerns about his potential threat to the health and safety of students. Musick’s certificate will remain suspended until a formal hearing is conducted or the charges are fully resolved.
Another Shocking Case: Michael Norman Oerther
The cases don’t stop there. Another teacher, Michael Norman Oerther, faced suspension after being charged with a felony DUI resulting in the tragic death of 27-year-old Leza Watts during a crash on October 25. This wasn’t Oerther’s first brush with the law, as he had a history of multiple DUI arrests dating back to 2005.
Due to the severity of the recent incident, Oerther’s certification has been suspended while he deals with the legal process, including potential permanent revocation if he is convicted. His situation puts the safety of students into sharp focus, with the educational authorities acting swiftly by placing him on administrative leave.
What Happens Next?
All three cases raise significant questions about the processes in place to protect students and the reputations of educators. The State Board of Education’s actions reflect a strong commitment to maintaining a safe educational environment, emphasizing that anyone who poses a threat to students will face serious consequences.
As these situations continue to unfold, parents, students, and community members are left pondering the future of their schools and the ongoing safety measures in place. The repercussions of these cases will likely echo throughout the educational landscape in South Carolina, prompting discussions about accountability and reform in the teaching profession.
Stay tuned for more developments as authorities continue to navigate these serious matters regarding educator conduct and student safety. It’s a story that highlights the importance of vigilance, integrity, and the protective measures that must always be at the forefront of our education system.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Horry County Schools to Enforce Ban on Personal Devices
Horry County School Board Considers No Cell Phone Policy in Classrooms Amid Disruption Concerns
Proposed Ban on Electronic Devices in Horry County Schools Sparks Community Debate
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Educator License Suspended for Former HCS Employee Facing Drug Charges
- WPDE: SCDE Issues Public Reprimand of Educator Certificate for Former Horry Co. Principal
- My Horry News: Horry County Schools to Adopt Cell Phone Ban
- Island Packet: Local Crime News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina educators
