Investigation Unfolds at St. Helens Schools Amid Allegations of Abuse and Neglect
Portland, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has disclosed the identities of several teachers and staff members at St. Helens High School and Middle School under active investigation for sexual abuse and negligent misconduct. The announcements were made on Thursday as the community grapples with serious allegations of misconduct within the St. Helens School District.
Among those named are Mark Collins and Eric Stearns, both alleged to have committed sexual abuse, while Katy Wagner and Scot Stockwell face allegations of neglect due to their failure to report critical child safety concerns. In addition, two other individuals are under investigation, though they are not currently implicated in a police inquiry.
According to ODHS, there had been no prior reports against these staff members from July 2019 to October 2024, and no safety concerns were reported at St. Helens High School until this month. Following the arrests of Collins and Stearns, the high school was closed from November 14 to 17 for staff training on addressing sexual abuse allegations.
Police are also investigating a Middle School teacher for misconduct but have not disclosed their identity or the specifics of the allegations. In light of these serious developments, officials are urging anyone suspecting child abuse or neglect to contact the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline.
The St. Helens School District Board Vice Chair expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing crisis, emphasizing the board’s commitment to cooperating with law enforcement. "We are appalled and deeply saddened by this situation," the statement read, highlighting the board’s respect for due process amid the investigations.
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