The Blount County school district finds itself embroiled in controversy as allegations of misconduct by a special education teacher surface, leading the school's director to call for her termination. Kathryn Goins, the teacher in question, faces multiple allegations of inappropriate behavior with special education students, some dating back to 2020. The case against Goins brewed to a head following a human resources audit that was triggered by a separate assault case involving another teacher.
According to a statement obtained by WVLT News, Justin Ridge, the Blount County Schools Director, accused the district's previous leadership of failing to launch a proper investigation or notify law enforcement about the accusations involving Goins. Notably, Goins, who has been working at Heritage High School since her transfer, is alleged to have participated in acts that included inappropriate physical interactions with a student, and conducting herself in ways contrary to district policy.
Supporting these claims, several notarized statements from staff who had worked with Goins at Union Grove Elementary School, where the initial incidents reportedly took place, were disclosed. In an article by 3BM Media News, the school system's documentation described Goins’ behavior as unprofessional and unethical, involving physical contact and isolation of a student in a bathroom. Additionally, Ridge released a comprehensive report detailing the allegations and bringing to light the connections Goins had within the school board, including her relation to a board member and a school secretary.
These events sparked a wider investigation by the Tennessee Department of Children's Services, as stated by WBIR. The scope of the allegations is extensive, with documents indicating that Goins was reported to have encouraged a student to masturbate, having contact with a student's genitals among other inappropriate actions. Witnesses also describe instances of physical aggression and verbal abuse towards students. The intricate web of personal connections within the district has raised concerns about the potential impact on the fairness of the investigation.
Ridge, asserting a commitment to transparency and integrity, acknowledged the failure of the district's initial handling of the case and has taken steps to rectify the matter. The district promises to enforce accountability and ensure the protection of students, resolving to dismiss Goins and prevent future misconduct by school staff. Amid the ongoing investigation, Goins has been placed on administrative leave, and her teaching license has been flagged with an official police report finally filed.
