A classroom teacher in Jackson County, West Virginia, has been terminated following what school officials described as a recent arrest and serious allegations.
Jail records show that 38-year-old Emily Joy Wise has been charged with sexual abuse of a child under the age of 16.
Jackson County Schools confirmed Wise’s termination and released a statement addressing her arrest on Wednesday.
In the statement, the school system said it became aware of the arrest and allegations involving former teacher Emily Wise and took immediate action as required by West Virginia Code. Officials explained that any employee facing a fact-finding investigation related to conduct that may endanger the health, safety, or welfare of students must be placed on immediate suspension. That action, the district said, was taken as soon as administrators learned of the allegations.
The statement further noted that Wise is no longer employed by Jackson County Schools. In compliance with state law, the West Virginia Department of Education’s licensure agency has been notified, and all other mandatory reporting requirements have been met.
School officials acknowledged that sharing such information is difficult but emphasized that transparency is necessary to protect the community and prevent speculation. The district stressed that student safety and well-being remain the top priority for all schools and employees.
Jackson County Schools also confirmed it is fully cooperating with the West Virginia State Police and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office as the criminal investigation continues.
Wise is currently being held at South Central Regional Jail on a $250,000 bond.