MCMINNVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Our kids work hard in schools across the state — both in the classroom and after school.
Their success matters, which is why this story is one that's going to get a lot of people's attention: a former Warren County teacher and club supervisor has now been indicted on theft and fraud charges after stealing from student fundraisers over several years.
The state comptrollers office — a government fiscal watchdog — started investigating Jamie Branin, a former teacher at Warren County High School.
The comptroller's office says Branin took money raised by students she oversaw in the Future Business Leaders of America Club as they fundraised by selling chocolate bars and meat sticks over the course of several years.
Now, Branin has been indicted by the Warren County Grand Jury on charges of theft and forgery, among others, leaving the students in the club with a lesson learned outside of the classroom.
"The teachable moment in this is we all have personal responsibility and make wise decisions," said Warren County Schools director Grant Swallows. "When we do that, things go well, when we choose not to do that, there are consequences."
Our viewers are the best! When Hannah McDonald highlighted the plight of Serenity Sumler, so many of you immediately stepped up. Serenity stopped to help a driver after spotting a wreck and was hit by another car, resulting in terrible injuries. Without the funds to pay for physical therapy, she was at a loss. Because of the kindness of others - she now can rehab and get back to school. Best of luck to her as she trains to become a chef!
- Carrie Sharp
