Woman Pretended to Be Substitute Teacher at Milwaukee High School And Berated Kids
A 23-year-old woman is facing charges after police say she pretended to be a substitute teacher and entered a classroom at Rufus King International High School in Milwaukee.
She Walked Right Into The Classroom
According to a criminal complaint, Amy Jones had visited the school about a week before the incident and reportedly learned about the substitute teacher process after overhearing staff in the main office. She allegedly told a secretary she was a substitute teacher, even though she did not work for the school or its substitute teaching agency.
On Sept. 24, Jones reportedly signed in and entered a classroom. A real teacher was in the room for the first 20 minutes before leaving Jones alone with the students. Here's where things get crazy...
Students Say Things Quickly Got Out of Hand
Once the teacher left, prosecutors say Jones began behaving inappropriately. Students told investigators she used profanity and racial slurs, made sexual comments, and separated students based on race and gender.
She allegedly insulted students over their weight, appearance, race, and money while loudly playing rap music. Jones also reportedly asked whether anyone had a vape or marijuana because the class was "so f---ing lame and annoying."
Students eventually reported what happened to school staff, and police escorted Jones from the building.
According to the complaint, Jones later told police she was bored, said she hated kids and claimed she simply wanted to "f- around."
Charges Have Now Been Filed
The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office charged Jones with impersonating a public employee and four counts of exposing a child to harmful descriptions.
Court records show she was scheduled to appear in court Oct. 6.
The school district said Jones was actually a former Rufus King student and was recognized by staff. MPS said it has launched its own investigation and put supportive measures in place for affected students.
The district also said police school resource officers and the Title IX coordinator were notified. Officials said they will continue taking steps to keep the school safe for students and staff.
Here was the statement sent to school families and staff on Monday, Oct. 5:
Dear Rufus King International High School Families and Staff,
We value you as a member of the school community and want to provide you with an update on the message below we shared with you late last month.
Since our first communication, our initial investigation determined that this individual involved was a former student recognized by staff. She was not a substitute teacher. We did involve our Milwaukee Police Department school resource officers (SROs) the day that this occurred. The district’s Title IX coordinator was also notified. In addition to any police actions resulting from this situation, the district is continuing with its own investigation.
We will continue to take all appropriate action to ensure that Rufus King International High School remains a safe and welcoming place for our students and staff.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support.
Sincerely,
Doreen Badillo
Principal
Rufus King International High School
