St. Tammany School Employee Arrested After Alleged Incident Involving Special Needs Student

St. Tammany School Employee Arrested After Alleged Incident Involving Special Needs Student

COVINGTON, La. — A St. Tammany Parish school employee has been arrested following an incident involving a child with special needs, raising concerns among parents and the local community.

According to court records, 44-year-old Marsha Ernest was taken into custody on March 13 in connection with an alleged incident at E.E. Lyon Elementary School. She is facing a charge of simple battery involving an individual classified as infirmed.

Ernest is listed as a paraprofessional at the school, a role that typically involves assisting students and supporting teachers, often working closely with children who require additional care or supervision.

Authorities have not released specific details about what led to the charge. Covington Police confirmed the arrest but stated they are limiting public information while the case remains active.

In a statement, officials emphasized that the matter is still under investigation and that protecting the integrity of the legal process is a priority. The St. Tammany Parish School District acknowledged awareness of the situation but has not clarified Ernest’s current employment status.

After her arrest, Ernest was booked into the St. Tammany Parish jail with a bond set at $5,000. Records show she was released just a few days later on March 16.

Her next scheduled court appearance is set for June 24.

As the case moves forward, many in the community are watching closely, especially given the sensitive nature of the allegations involving a vulnerable student.

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