Image Credit: Office of the TN Comptroller
By John Dunn –
A former teacher at Hardin County Middle School in Savannah, Tennessee has been indicted for theft and official misconduct based upon an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office.
Investigators determined that Amy McSwain, who taught English Language Arts, stole at least $370 in student supply and locker rental fees. The money was paid by McSwain’s homeroom students during the 2022-2023 school year.
McSwain was required to provide the money to the school’s bookkeeper for deposit; however, she admitted to investigators that she did not remit any fees she collected to the bookkeeper.
School officials recovered $180 in checks that were written to the school, but $370 in other fees collected remain missing. McSwain told investigators that she is willing to repay the money.
McSwain resigned from her employment with Hardin County Schools on June 30, 2023. She was indicted by the Hardin County Grand Jury on July 17, 2023.
“Hardin County Middle School teachers are required to use a collection log to account for money,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “This teacher did not follow school policy, which made it difficult for investigators to determine exactly how much money had been collected from students. School officials should develop a method to ensure teachers and other staff comply with the required process.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports.
About the Author: John Dunn is the Director of Communications for the office of the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury.
