SULLIVAN COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Friday, a previous Special Education teacher from Kingsport City Schools, who had been accused of multiple child abuse offenses, agreed to a plea bargain.

Michelle Carpenter, who taught pre-school special education, was previously indicted on 20 felony counts of child abuse involving 10 special needs pre-schoolers. The alleged abuse took place between August 2021 and March 2022.

On Friday, Carpenter entered an Alford plea and pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse/neglect. 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 9 at 1:30 p.m.

News Channel 11 has reached out to Kingsport City Schools for clarification on Carpenter’s employment status.

The full court appearance can be watched in the media player above.