St. Helens High School shut its doors Thursday following heated protests against two teachers accused of sexual abuse. The school will remain closed until Monday, underscoring the tension gripping the community.
Protest Erupts After Abuse Allegations
The allegations against Eric Stearns, 46, a choir teacher, and Mark Collins, 64, a former teacher, have sent shockwaves through St. Helens. Both men face accusations of sexually abusing nine students on campus over several years.
Stearns has pleaded not guilty to eight counts of sexual abuse, while Collins denied charges of second-degree sexual abuse and attempted sexual abuse in court on Thursday.
Parents Demand Accountability
The controversy intensified after a school board meeting on Wednesday. Hundreds of parents expressed frustration over the two-month delay in notifying families about the investigation.
One parent voiced the community’s frustration: “Why are we attracting pedophiles to our district? What steps are being taken to prevent this and hold staff accountable?”
Students Share Their Painful Stories
During the meeting, students courageously recounted their experiences.
Maddie Filardo, a former choir student, shared an emotional account: “In my freshman year, I faced bullying and harassment. Mr. Stearns became my safe person, but I didn’t realize at the time that his hugs and kisses on the head were inappropriate.”
The School’s Response and Police Denial
St. Helens School District Board Chair Ryan Scholl stated that Stearns was not placed on leave earlier due to law enforcement advice. However, Police Chief Joseph Hogue disputed this, clarifying that officers never advised the school to keep Stearns in the classroom.
Community Protest Shuts Down School
Protesters gathered outside the high school Thursday morning, demanding justice for the victims and action against those responsible. The demonstration led school officials to send students home early and announce closures through Monday.
The school’s statement cited safety concerns as the reason for the decision: “Many students and staff have expressed feeling unsafe amid the demonstration.”
District Vows to Protect Students
In a statement, the St. Helens School District expressed sorrow over the allegations: “The safety and trust of our students and families are our foremost priorities. We have brought in additional counseling staff to support students and staff during this challenging time.”
The district also pledged to cooperate fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
Law Enforcement Calls for More Witnesses
St. Helens police have uncovered additional potential victims and urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.
“We are committed to ensuring justice and protecting our community’s children,” said Chief Hogue.
A Community in Turmoil
As protests continue and investigations unfold, the St. Helens community grapples with deep-seated anger and grief. Parents and students demand accountability from the district and hope for meaningful changes to safeguard their schools.
The scandal has left the town questioning how such incidents could occur—and how to prevent them in the future
