News Summary
Recent incidents in Spartanburg County Schools have shocked parents and the community as two staff members faced arrests for allegedly mistreating special needs students. Mary Dobbing, a teacher, struck a 17-year-old student, while Elizabeth Wypych, a teacher’s assistant, dragged a 4-year-old student down a hallway. Both cases have raised serious concerns over student safety and the treatment of vulnerable populations in educational settings.
Shocking Incidents Rattle Spartanburg County Schools
Spartanburg, SC – The calm atmosphere of Spartanburg County School District 7 has been shaken after the arrest of two staff members for allegations of mistreating special needs students. Both individuals were charged with cruelty to children, a serious accusation that has left parents and the community in disbelief.
Mary Dobbing’s Allegation at McCarthy Teszler School
Mary Dobbing, a 44-year-old teacher, was employed at the McCarthy Teszler School, known for serving special needs children. The alleged wrongdoing took place on February 17, 2025, when Dobbing reportedly struck a 17-year-old special needs student on the back of the head twice. This shocking event unfolded in front of several witnesses, some of whom even captured the incident on their mobile phones. Understandably, this sparked immediate concern, leading to a prompt report to the school resource officer.
Following the incident, the sheriff’s office swiftly took statements from witnesses and conducted a thorough investigation. By March 13, 2025, the case had reached a judge, resulting in the issuance of a warrant for Dobbing’s arrest. She was taken into custody on March 15 and subsequently released on bond the following day. It is important to note that Dobbing was no longer part of the school staff as of February 17, just before the allegations surfaced, and she had been a part of the district since 2019.
Elizabeth Wypych’s Incident at EP Todd Elementary
In a separate, but equally disturbing event, 23-year-old Elizabeth Wypych, a teacher’s assistant at EP Todd Elementary, faces serious charges as well. On March 7, 2025, Wypych was reported for dragging a 4-year-old autistic student down the hallway by their wrist. The incident was witnessed by multiple staff members, raising alarms over the treatment of vulnerable students in the school setting.
Similar to the process in Dobbing’s case, this incident was reported to the school resource officer, prompting an investigation and statements from those present. Wypych was arrested on March 17, 2025, and released on the same day. Remarkably, she had only joined the district in August 2024 and was no longer working with the school as of March 13, just a few days prior to her arrest.
Potential Consequences Under South Carolina Law
Both Dobbing and Wypych have been charged with cruelty to children, a charge that may carry significant penalties under South Carolina law. As a misdemeanor, it could lead to a maximum of 30 days in jail or a fine that could reach up to $200. These allegations are quite serious, especially considering the vulnerable population they were responsible for supporting.
Community Reactions and Safeguarding the Future
The news of these incidents has sent shockwaves throughout the community, with parents expressing their concern for their children’s safety while in school. The importance of creating a nurturing environment for special needs students cannot be overstated, and incidents like these highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability in educational settings.
As both educators face their charges, they are currently prohibited from making any contact with their respective victims, ensuring that the well-being and comfort of these children remain a top priority. The road ahead will likely involve legal proceedings, community responses, and the continued examination of policies to protect the most vulnerable students.
In the wake of these troubling accusations, it is clear that the schools in Spartanburg County must reinforce their commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and caring atmosphere for every student, especially those with special needs.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Former Teachers Charged with Cruelty to Children
- WSPA: Upstate Teachers Accused of Hitting Special Needs Students
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg Teachers Charged with Cruelty to Children
- Greenville Online: Spartanburg Music Teacher Accused of Criminal Sexual Conduct
- Go Upstate: Spartanburg Day Teacher Fired Under Investigation
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Google Search: Teacher Abuse Special Needs Students
- Google Scholar: School Abuse Special Needs Children
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Special Education
- Google News: Spartanburg Teachers Charged with Cruelty
