A Macon County public schools teacher was charged with bringing a gun onto educational property last week.

JENNIFER NICOLE SMITH

Name: Jennifer Nicole Smith
Age: 37
Charge(s): Gun on educational property (CLass I Felony)
Charge Type(s): (View Sentencing Chart)
Court Case: No eCourts listing as of 12-15-24
Arrest Date: 12-12-24
Bond Details: $5,000 unsecured. Posted.

Victim /Case Details: 
Someone found the gun in Smith’s unattended purse, according to the Macon County Sheriff’s Office. The school resource officer was notified and an investigation was started.

“The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities,” Sheriff Brent Holbrooks said. “It is imperative that we uphold the laws designed to protect our schools and maintain a safe learning environment for everyone. We encourage open communication and cooperation as we move forward. The safety of our community is paramount, and together, we can work to uphold the values we all cherish.”

The sheriff also said he does not believe that there was an imminent threat to anyone’s safety.

District: Macon County Public Schools
Current Role: 4th GradeTeacher, East Franklin Elementary School
Employment History: Unknown at this time.
Employment status: Unknown at this time.

Statement from District:
 “The safety of our children and staff is our number one priority.”

NC Teacher License Information: 

Records show two teacher licenses bearing the name Jennifer Nicole Smith. This article will be updated once it has been determined which license applies to the individual in this case.