California teacher arrested over sexual abuse of student on school grounds

Emma Blance Shaffer, 35, may face additional charges as an investigation is still underway. Her bail was set at $35,500.

Shaffer was a teacher at the Loyalton High School, and it was the principal of that school who reported a sexual assault at the school. It was revealed during an investigation that the teacher was involved in a sexual relationship with the student, per the Sierra Daily News.

The Sierra County Sheriff's Office released a statement, saying that they are "working closely with the Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified School District and the Loyalton High School Administration Staff. The school staff and the sheriff’s office strongly encourage parents/guardians, as well as former or current students, to come forward with any information relevant to this investigation or potential additional victims and not remain silent."

Police obtained a search warrant pertaining to Shaffer on November 30 after interviews and an investigation. Shaffer was booked on Friday into the Nevada County jail.

In 2020, Shaffer was part of an effort to make sure that students had access to the internet and to internet connective devices. She discussed the difficulties of teaching students remotely, and stated that she engaged in virtual spirit day with the students, encouraging them to post pictures on Facebook.