Substitute teacher charged following alleged altercation

Substitute teacher Kimberly Wolford, 65, of Spencer, has been arrested and charged with official misconduct, battery on a person less than 14 years old, and disorderly conduct, the first two of which are Level 6 felonies.

According to WTHR.com, the arrest warrant stems from a Sept. 7, 2026 incident at Spencer Elementary School. Police were called after Wolford allegedly screamed in a fifth grade student’s face and shoved them. Wolford denies touching the child.

The school’s statement on the issue is as follows:

“School administration was made aware of concerns involving a Kelly Services substitute on September 16 at Spencer Elementary School and responded immediately. The substitute was removed from the classroom, and her employer, Kelly Services, was contacted regarding the reported incident.

“We are aware that a parent has pursued charges related to the matter. Because this involves a student, personnel matters, and an ongoing legal process, the school corporation cannot comment on the specific allegations or circumstances. We will continue to cooperate with the appropriate authorities as requested.

“Our priority remains providing a safe, supportive learning environment for every student in our care.”

Kelly Services is a temporary staffing agency with offices in 80 countries around the world.

In the state of Indiana, substitute teachers are only required to be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma. Any other requirements for hire at SES are set by either Kelly Services or the substitute teacher’s school corporation. Spencer-Owen Community Schools requires applicants to complete a background check before being hired.

Wolford’s trial is set for April 20, 2027. Owen County Public Defender Jacob Fish will represent Wolford during the proceedings. As with all charges, individuals should be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.