In a shocking incident in Berkeley County, South Carolina, a school teacher has lost his job and been suspended from teaching for one year after he was found to have brought alcohol to school. The South Carolina State Board of Education made the decision earlier this month, saying that the teacher’s actions violated professional and ethical standards expected of educators.
Teacher Caught After Student Raised Alarm
The teacher, Daniel Henri Tinelli, was reported by a student on November 1, 2023, after the student noticed he was “acting off” and smelled of alcohol. The student informed the school staff, raising concerns about Tinelli’s condition.
While Tinelli was off campus during lunch, school administrators checked his classroom and discovered five unopened beer cans inside a lunchbox on his desk.
Immediate Action Taken by School and Police
Once Tinelli returned to the school, he was immediately confronted by the school administration and was told to leave the campus right away. Police officers present at the school also warned him not to drive, fearing he was under the influence. He did not drive himself home but arranged for someone to pick him up.
Shortly after the incident, the Berkeley County School District terminated his employment, taking swift disciplinary action.
One-Year Suspension by State Board
Following an investigation, the South Carolina State Board of Education suspended Tinelli’s teaching license for 12 months, effective from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. The board stated that his behavior amounted to “unprofessional conduct”, a serious breach of state education standards.
Tinelli does have the right to appeal the decision, but as of now, his teaching career has been put on hold.
Why This Is a Serious Issue
Bringing alcohol into a school setting is not only against school rules but also poses a safety risk to students. The board did not mention what type of alcohol Tinelli brought or his reason for doing so. However, they made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated, especially when the safety and wellbeing of students are involved.
Education Board’s Response
In a statement, the South Carolina Board of Education confirmed its strong stance on maintaining professional conduct in schools. “We are committed to protecting students and holding teachers accountable,” the board said.
They also emphasized that all educators are expected to serve as role models, and any behavior that puts students at risk — or shows poor judgment — will be met with firm disciplinary action.
The suspension of Daniel Henri Tinelli highlights the importance of professionalism in the education sector. A single mistake can have a serious impact, especially when it involves the safety of students. While Tinelli’s career has taken a major hit, the incident also serves as a reminder to all educators about the responsibility they carry every day in the classroom. The education board’s decision shows that maintaining a safe and respectful environment for students is always a top priority.
