An educator at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI) in Austin is facing accusations of having an inappropriate relationship with a student. The arrest affidavit, filed on Friday, named 36-year-old Craig Edgley as the suspect in connection to an incident dating back to October 2023.
According to court documents, Edgley was working at the school when the alleged incident took place, and he is still currently employed there. However, TSBVI has placed him on leave upon learning of the accusation.
TSBVI Superintendent Emily Coleman stated that the school became aware of the allegation against Edgley last year and immediately placed him on leave while awaiting the outcome of the law enforcement investigation. As of now, Edgley remains on leave, and the school is seeking more information from the authorities regarding the specific charges and arrest.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) has not received a report on Edgely. The TEA mandates that school officials must report any suspicions of inappropriate relationships between educators and students to the agency.
The Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, located in central Austin, is a specialized public school catering to students with visual impairments ranging from ages six to 22. The school provides essential services and education to help visually impaired students thrive academically and socially.
It is important to note that in Texas, a teacher can be charged with an improper relationship with a student even if the student is 17 years old or older. This law is in place to protect students and ensure a safe learning environment free from any form of misconduct or abuse.
As the investigation unfolds, the school community, law enforcement, and education authorities are working together to address the situation appropriately and uphold the safety and well-being of all students at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.