MONROE, NC — A veteran educator at Parkwood High School is facing serious criminal charges today after authorities discovered weapons and drug paraphernalia on school grounds Monday morning.
Gerald Wade Morton Jr., a chemistry teacher who has been with the Union County Public School (UCPS) district since 1999, was arrested following a tip regarding the odor of marijuana inside the school building. The incident has left parents and the Monroe community searching for answers about how a 25-year veteran of the classroom could be found impaired on campus.
The Investigation: From Hallway Odor to Chemistry Lab
The investigation began early Monday morning before students had even arrived for classes. Deputies with the Union County Sheriff’s Office reported a “strong odor of marijuana” permeating a hallway.
K-9 units and drug experts traced the scent directly to Morton’s chemistry classroom. According to officials, Morton was screened by a drug expert and allegedly exhibited clear signs of impairment.
Weapons Discovered on Campus
The search quickly expanded from the classroom to Morton’s vehicle, which was parked on school property with the windows cracked. While no drugs were found inside the car, deputies recovered a loaded 9mm handgun from the center console.
A subsequent search of a storage closet inside Morton’s classroom revealed a black bookbag containing:
- A small dagger-style knife with a clip (reportedly belonging to his son).
- A police badge from another jurisdiction.
- Drug paraphernalia and a sealed amount of hemp.
While the firearm was located in the vehicle and not the classroom, North Carolina law strictly prohibits the possession of any firearm on educational property.
School District and Parental Reaction
UCPS officials moved quickly to place Morton on administrative leave. In a message sent to Parkwood High parents, the school’s administration emphasized that while the charges are serious, no firearm ever entered the school building itself.
“These charges are very serious and many of you may have questions,” the message stated. “Because this is an active investigation… I am not at liberty to share any details.”
For many parents, the arrest is particularly jarring given Morton’s long history with the school. Having taught generations of students since the late 90s, he was a familiar face in the Parkwood community.
Current Status
Morton has been charged with:
- Possession of a firearm on educational property
- Possession of a weapon (non-firearm) on educational property
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Records indicate that Morton has already posted a $10,000 bond and has been released from custody pending his court date.
Union County Parents: How do you feel about this incident? Are you satisfied with the school’s communication regarding the arrest, or do you have concerns about campus safety protocols?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
