A quiet classroom at Angola High School became the center of a startling incident when two students unknowingly consumed cannabis-infused gummies. The events unfolded during their final class of the day, triggering an immediate investigation by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities were alerted by a school resource deputy who reported the students’ unexpected reaction. It quickly became clear the students had ingested THC sweets, completely unaware of their potent contents. The gummies were reportedly accessible, left out in the open within the classroom itself.
The investigation swiftly focused on Debra McGillem, a 49-year-old language arts teacher at the school. Evidence suggested she was the one who brought the gummies onto school property, initiating a chain of events with serious consequences.
When taken into custody, officers discovered additional suspected THC gummies in McGillem’s possession. The teacher now faces multiple charges, including neglect of a dependent, possession of a controlled substance, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
McGillem was held on a $6,500 bond and remains incarcerated as the legal process unfolds. The school district acknowledged the situation, stating an internal investigation was underway and disciplinary action would be taken according to policy and the law.
However, the arrest sparked an outpouring of support for McGillem from her students. Many took to social media to defend her character and express disbelief at the allegations.
One senior, Josh Carroll, wrote passionately about McGillem’s positive impact, describing her as “the best teacher in that school by far.” He pleaded for understanding, emphasizing that “people make mistakes” and she didn’t deserve the ensuing backlash.
The incident has left the Angola High School community grappling with shock and divided opinions, highlighting the complex interplay between accountability and compassion in the face of unexpected events.
