Local Teacher Accused of Telling Student to Commit Suicide

SHELBY, NC — A Shelby teacher is facing accusations that she told a student to hang himself.

Witnesses say the incident happened last week.

The Cleveland County School District confirms it has suspended Sharon Carey with pay while it investigates the teacher. However, a spokesperson would not give any details on the investigation.

Carey has taught math nearly 20 years at Crest High School.

“This is harassment. This is bullying, and we are supposed to be teaching our kids not to do this, and she’s doing it,” said Melissa Tyndall. Tyndall says she complained two years ago when her daughter came home with a similar story.

“She told my daughter she was worthless, may as well go home and die,” said Tyndall. “At the parent teacher conference that the principal attended, she denied every word. She said, ‘I have a special needs child, and I never use language like that.’.”

This time, students claim there is video proof. The district could not confirm that.

The district say as soon as someone notified administrators about the suspected incident, the district suspended the teacher with pay to provide the opportunity for thorough investigation.

WCCB Charlotte went to the teacher’s home to hear her side. A man in the yard said she had no comment.

If the allegation is true, this mother wants to know context surrounding the comment and wants the teacher fired.

“If your child comes home and tells you things like this, investigate you are your child’s advocate,” said Tyndall.

So far, there is no record of a police report filed. Legal analyst say it’s not a criminal offense to tell someone to commit suicide. Although, a person could take civil action.