Students Eat Teacher's THC Gummies in Classroom, Arrested
Imagine walking into a high school classroom expecting a typical day of lessons, only to discover that the candy on the teacher's desk isn't quite what it seems. This unsettling scenario unfolded at Angola High School in Indiana, where a trusted language arts teacher allegedly left THC-infused gummies "out in the open," leading to two students unknowingly consuming them, as reported by PEOPLE. The incident, which came to light on Nov. 14, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the community, raising serious questions about trust, responsibility, and the legal consequences of such actions.
The Incident Unfolds
The story began during the last class period on Nov. 13, when two students at Angola High School ate what they believed to be ordinary candy. Unbeknownst to them, the sweets contained THC, the psychoactive component found in marijuana. The gummies had allegedly been left openly in the classroom by Debra L. McGillem, a 49-year-old language arts teacher.
The school resource deputy was alerted the following morning, Nov. 14, after learning about the students' unexpected ingestion of the THC edibles. According to the Steuben County Sheriff's Office, the students were unaware of the candy's true nature at the time they ate it, highlighting a disturbing lapse in judgment and safety within the classroom environment.
A Breach of Trust
For many, a classroom is a sanctuary — a place where students expect to be safe and guided by responsible adults. The revelation that a teacher allegedly brought controlled substances into this space and left them accessible to minors feels like a profound betrayal. Parents, students, and community members alike are grappling with the shock of this breach.
The fact that the candies were "out in the open," rather than hidden or secured, only deepens the sense of negligence. It raises questions about how such substances found their way into a school setting and why they were not properly stored or removed before class. This incident underscores the critical importance of vigilance and accountability in educational environments, where the well-being of young people must always be paramount.
Legal and Institutional Stakes
The consequences for McGillem are significant. She reportedly faces preliminary felony charges including neglect of a dependent and possession of a controlled substance on school property — both Level 6 felonies under Indiana law. Additionally, she is charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, a misdemeanor, after authorities observed signs suggesting she had driven under the influence to the sheriff's office for questioning.
These charges reflect the seriousness with which the legal system views the protection of minors and the prohibition of controlled substances in schools. Neglect of a dependent, in this context, refers to the failure to provide adequate care and protection to students under her supervision. Possession of a controlled substance on school property is a strict offense designed to keep schools safe and drug-free.
The school district has also launched an internal investigation. Superintendent Matthew Widenhoefer confirmed that disciplinary action would be taken in accordance with district policy and applicable law, signaling a commitment to addressing the issue transparently and thoroughly, as reported by PEOPLE.
Community Reactions and the Human Side
Despite the gravity of the situation, some students have come to McGillem's defense, describing her as a dedicated and effective teacher. One senior expressed disbelief at the backlash, saying, "she was the best teacher in that school by far ... She doesn't deserve all the hate and disrespect. She's a human being, people make mistakes just like we all do," as reported by PEOPLE.
This response adds a layer of complexity to the story. It reminds us that behind every headline is a human being, and that even those who falter deserve a fair process and consideration. However, it also highlights the tension between personal failings and professional responsibilities, especially when the safety of children is at stake.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the community of Angola High School faces the challenge of healing and restoring trust. The legal process will determine McGillem's fate, but the broader lesson is clear: the safety and well-being of students must always come first.
You might find yourself wondering how such a lapse could happen and what safeguards can be put in place to prevent it from happening again. This case shines a spotlight on the delicate balance educators must maintain between their personal lives and professional duties — and the high stakes involved when that balance is disrupted.
References: Teacher Allegedly Left THC Candies 'Out in the Open' in Classroom. 2 Students Ate Them, and She Was Arrested | Teacher arrested after students eat her THC gummies: Cops | Teacher Arrested After Students Ingest Suspected THC Edibles at Angola High School
