A troubling incident at a school in Calhoun County, South Carolina, has left many parents worried about student safety. A substitute teacher has been arrested after second-grade students reported inappropriate behaviour and serious threats inside the classroom.
What Happened at St. Matthews K-8 School
At St. Matthews K-8 School, a substitute teacher, Dejuan Antoinette Fludd, 71, is facing 18 counts of unlawful conduct toward a child.
According to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, the case began when a second-grade student reported concerning behaviour to school staff.
Students told authorities that the substitute:
- Used abusive language in class
- Forced students to stand for long periods
- Allegedly threatened to “shoot them”
- Made statements about “lighting them up”
Investigators say multiple students shared similar accounts during interviews.
How the Complaint Was Handled
The situation moved quickly once the complaint reached adults. Here’s how events unfolded:
- A student reported the issue to the school principal
- The principal contacted the sheriff’s office
- A deputy arrived on April 22 and spoke with students
- School administrators assisted in the investigation
- The substitute teacher was removed from campus
- The district’s human resources department was informed
- Charges were officially filed days later
Authorities confirmed that Fludd admitted to making the statements but claimed she was “playing.”
School District’s Response
The Calhoun County School District addressed the situation in a public statement, assuring families that student safety is their top priority.
Officials said they are committed to maintaining a safe learning environment and will continue to follow proper procedures to protect both students and staff.
However, the district has not yet shared detailed information about:
- Background checks for substitute teachers
- Any past complaints involving the accused
- Support provided to affected students
- Future employment restrictions for the substitute
About the School
St. Matthews K-8 School serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. It was created by merging two schools—Guinyard Elementary and John Ford Middle School—around the 2009–2010 academic year.
Because it is a combined campus, the incident has affected families across different age groups, not just the second-grade class.
Understanding the Charges
Fludd is facing 18 separate counts of unlawful conduct toward a child. Each charge is linked to one student who was reportedly affected.
The charges are based on:
- Alleged threats of violence
- Use of offensive language
- Classroom behaviour considered inappropriate and harmful
If proven in court, these charges can carry serious legal consequences.
What Parents Should Know Now
For parents in Calhoun County, this case raises important concerns about classroom safety and school monitoring systems.
At this stage, key confirmed points include:
- A student spoke up about the issue
- The school acted by contacting law enforcement
- The substitute was removed the same day
- Legal charges were filed shortly after
Parents who still have questions are encouraged to contact the school administration or the district office directly for more clarity.
