Teacher lets students skip class for a $1

A second middle school teacher accused of letting students sit out gym class in exchange for paying a daily $1 bribe has been arrested.

Tamara B. Tootle, 39, is facing six counts of bribery. She turned herself in late Thursday night after warranties were issued for her arrest, said Mike Ward, a spokesman for the sheriff's office. She was later released on bond.

Between August 2004 and May 2005, Tootle told students at Ernest Ward Middle School that they did not have to dress for her physical education class, but would still receive a 100 percent for participation if they gave her $1, authorities said.

Terence Braxton, 28, of Atmore, Ala., a former teacher at the same school was arrested in February on bribery charges. Officials said he could have made thousands of dollars by pulling the same stunt.

Authorities began investigating after students informed Principal Nancy Gindl-Perry of what was going on. Arnold said he does not believe any other teachers were involved.

"Hopefully, this closes a sad chapter," he said. Article here.