Local News

Burleson ISD Substitute Teacher Arrested

September 17, 2015 / 4:09 PM CDT / CBS Texas

Follow CBSDFW.COM: Facebook | Twitter

Burleson ISD says a substitute teacher who worked at secondary school campuses was arrested and charged with inappropriate conduct with a minor in Johnson County.

The substitute is Daniel Drew Sifford Jr.

Here is the letter that went out ot Burleson ISD parents from the Superintendent:

The safety and wellbeing of every Burleson ISD student is always our highest priority. We also are absolutely committed to strong communication and always keeping our parents and community members informed. For these reasons, I am writing to notify you that BISD learned today about the arrest of a substitute teacher. Even though this case does not involve any BISD student, we wanted to provide this information to you immediately.

We have been notified by the Johnson County Sheriff's Office that Daniel Drew Sifford Jr., who worked as a substitute teacher this year at secondary campuses, has been charged with inappropriate conduct with a minor in Johnson County. He did not substitute at any elementary campuses. If the allegations are true, they are unconscionable and a breach of the community's trust. BISD is fully cooperating with the Johnson County District Attorney in this matter.

The substitute is barred from BISD and is no longer employed by our district.

Our district follows state requirements in screening applicants who are recommended for employment, including full state and national background checks. In addition, substitute teachers must participate in an orientation required by our human resources department before entering into a classroom. We have confirmed that all the appropriate processes were followed in the employment of this individual, and no previous allegations or criminal activity were indicated in this substitute's background check.

BISD will continue to act diligently and swiftly to address any misconduct. If you have questions, please contact your campus principal.

I thank you for your support for the Burleson Independent School District. As always, student safety is job one. Together, we will keep our children safe.

Sincerely,

Dr. Bret Jimerson
Superintendent of Schools

Sifford was a former contract labor employee of the BRiCk (Burleson Recreation Center, a City-owned center).

Sifford was a summer camp counselor at the BRiCk but he was released from that role after five weeks because he was not happy with the program and had difficulty meeting the mandatory training sessions, according to a statement by the city of Burleson.

He also ran a musical theater dance camp for 13-18 year old students for eight days in August. Those August classes were never one-on-one.

At this point (September 17), there have been no reports or complaints from BRiCk patrons concerning Sifford or his actions while a contract employee at the BRiCk. If anyone has any information to provide concerning Sifford's actions while he was employed at the BRiCk, please call the Burleson Police Department at 817-426-9903. For questions concerning BRiCK operations, please call 817-426-9113.