DCS investigating two incidents at Loudon County schools

News Sentinel staff

The state Department of Children’s Services has confirmed it is investigating separate incidents involving staff members at two Loudon County schools.

An investigation was launched April 9 into allegations against Lisa Hale, a special education teacher at Eaton Elementary School in Lenoir City, DCS spokesman Rob Johnson said Thursday.

Johnson declined to specify the nature of the case.

DCS also is investigating North Middle School teaching assistant William Michael Olds, who is accused of assaulting a child, Johnson said.

Olds, who works with special needs students, has been charged with child abuse or neglect in connection with an April 8 incident in the school cafeteria, according to an arrest warrant.

Neither Loudon County Schools Superintendent Jason Vance nor Assistant Superintendent Mike Garren returned a call for comment Thursday.

Vance previously told the News-Herald that Olds has been suspended without pay. Hale’s employment status could not immediately be confirmed Thursday.