Teacher Arrested at San Antonio Elementary School on Drug Charges
San Antonio – A teacher at Mary Hull Elementary School was arrested last week after allegedly dropping a bag containing methamphetamine while on duty. Daniel Anthony Gonzalez, a special education teacher, was taken into custody on December 6, 2024, facing serious charges including possession of an illegal substance and child endangerment.
Event Timeline and Arrest Details
According to reports, Gonzalez was in the process of unlocking a classroom door when a matchbox filled with methamphetamine fell from his pocket and onto the school hallway floor. This incident was captured on surveillance cameras at the school. Following the incident, school officials acted quickly, confirming that the drug-related case had no ties to the school environment or its students.
School District’s Response
The Northside Independent School District stated that Gonzalez’s arrest and the charges he faces are not linked to the school or any students. A spokesperson for the district said, “I can confirm a NISD employee (D. Gonzales), a Special Education teacher at Mary Hull ES, was arrested by NISD police on December 6, 2024, on a drug-related charge(s). The drug-related charge was in no way connected to the school, any other staff member, or any student.”
Employment Status of the Teacher
Following the arrest, Gonzalez was placed on administrative leave. However, he decided to resign from his teaching position shortly thereafter. His formal termination from the district is set to take effect on December 20. Gonzalez had been with the Northside Independent School District for over a decade, initially joining as an instructional assistant in January 2012 before attaining his position as a special education teacher in 2013.
Community Reaction and Implications
The community and parents of students at Mary Hull Elementary have expressed their concern regarding the incident, emphasizing the need for vigilance in ensuring a safe learning environment for children. As the investigation continues, parents are being reassured that their children were never in direct danger from the incident.
This case has raised important questions about drug use and its implications, particularly when it involves individuals in positions of trust, such as educators. The Northside Independent School District is known for its commitment to a safe educational environment, making this incident particularly troubling for the community.
Conclusion
As the situation develops, the school district is likely to review policies and support systems for its staff to prevent similar incidents in the future. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that schools may face and the importance of maintaining a secure environment for students and staff alike.
