Scott Swartzfager, a 47-year-old special education teacher at Carver Elementary in Wendell, has been released from jail following his first court appearance Wednesday. Swartzfager faces five felony charges of assault on individuals with disabilities and five misdemeanor charges of  allegedly assaulting children under 12, related to incidents involving students aged 5 to 10 on May 6.
Prosecutors stated that five fellow teachers witnessed the assaults and reported them to school administrators. Swartzfager has reportedly admitted to the actions during the police investigation. He was suspended with pay by Wake County Public Schools on May 9.
Judge Mark Stevens approved his pre-trial release under conditions that he avoid Carver Elementary and have no contact with victims or witnesses. Swartzfager’s next court date is June 4.
Meanwhile, mental health professionals urge parents to support affected children and manage their own emotional response without self-blame.
