Hundreds attend St Helens school board meeting following allegations of sexual abuse

ST HELENS Ore. (KPTV) – An overflow crowd of St. Helens parents and students attended a school board meeting Wednesday evening following the charges against a former teacher and a current teacher at St. Helens High School.

Music history teacher Eric Stearns, 46, and former teacher Mark Collins, 64, were indicted Tuesday on sex charges. Among the allegations are claims that the suspects inappropriately touched minors.

St. Helens School District Superintendent Scot Stockwell says the charges have sent “shockwaves” through the community.

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A lawsuit was filed Tuesday against a Lake Oswego couple after the man was convicted of drugging his daughter’s friends during a sleepover last year.

At least 100 people filled the gathering at Plymouth High School, while another 500 watched via Zoom.

Several speakers asked the school board why Eric Stearns was allowed to teach students during the two-month investigation.

Stockwell responded to this during the meeting, saying, “As part of the work and cooperation with the district attorney… the St. Helens School District was required to withhold the existence of the investigation to avoid interference with law enforcement.”

Groups of current and former students also spoke at the meeting, with one saying: “We want to be protected, we want to have confidence in this school.”

Alleged victims shared their personal stories of inappropriate encounters with Stearns and Collins.

Many parents frustrated by what they call a “history” of sexual assault and bullying allegations in the school system say what they want most of all is action.

Several speakers at the meeting called for the resignation of both Superintendent Stockwell and St. Helens High School principal Dr. Katy Wagner.

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One of two St. Helens High School teachers accused of sexual abuse appeared in court Wednesday afternoon.

Stearns pleaded not guilty during his virtual hearing on Wednesday and his bail has been set at $150,000.

Collins is no longer in custody. He posted bail Wednesday and his arraignment hearing was rescheduled for Thursday.