Coworker, Former Student Speak Out To Support Teacher Charged With Assault

PROVIDENCE, Utah – A Cache Valley middle school teacher faced charges of child abuse and assault after a scuffle with students. One day later, there were people stepping forward in defense of his over 20 years as a teacher.

None of those people were defending what happened Wednesday. Neither saw what happened.

They just want the community to know that Scott Meeker did so much more during his career at Spring Creek Middle School.

“We’ve taught together for 14 years,” said fellow teacher Cindy Allen.

She said people should also know what he’s been like as a teacher before rushing to judgment.

“I’d like for them to know the real Scott Meeker, his kindness and goodness, and 22 years of teaching. He has done so much good,” she said.

 

Allen said Meeker helped her get started as a science teacher and would give extra time to students with special needs, who were often not his students.

“He just has a sense for when people need help,” she said.

Deputies with the Cache County Sheriff’s Office said Meeker somehow lost his cool as some students were dunking the tops of lockers, which can be jarring for other students.

Arresting documents said Meeker pushed a few students out of the way, pushed a boy against a wall and hit another twice, causing goose eggs.

“I’m not saying that what he did was right. You should never lay your hands on the kids as a teacher,” said former student Kyle Nielsen.

Nielsen said he also knew a different Mr. Meeker, even though it was 20 years ago. He knew a quiet, soft-spoken teacher who often got a hard time from students.

“I just think people need to open their eyes more, and kind of see the other side of things. Mr. Meeker has a family – a very good family,” he said.

These kinds of allegations don’t come out a lot for teachers, but after seeing the mugshot online, Neilson and Allen said the virtual pitchforks often follow.

“Let’s be patient and kind with each other,” Allen said.

Meeker was back at home Friday. He declined to comment to KSL-TV.

District officials said he was placed on administrative leave, and they will take appropriate measures once an investigation has been completed.