Working with children can be stressful, and given the nationwide shortage of educators, teachers carry a heavy burden.
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A Pennsylvania teacher decided to relieve her stress with a midday booze run, leading to a chaotic day at the office.
Katharine Viviano, 50, hit the bottle hard during her shift on Oct. 8, and was later found inside the restroom of Pleasant Valley Elementary School in McMurray reeking of alcohol and showing signs of slurred speech, according to police.
WTAE reported that investigators used surveillance footage to determine that the first-grade teacher left campus at 11 AM bound for Fine Wine & Good Spirits.
When she returned, Viviano allegedly backed into a parked car in the school lot and stumbled back inside.
Drunken Teacher Locks Herself in School Bathroom During Shift
Viviano allegedly left her students unattended during her liquor store run and locked herself in a bathroom when she returned.
When police finally convinced her to exit the bathroom, Viviano allegedly had bloodshot eyes and struggled to speak.
She confessed that she drank vodka earlier in the day, according to police.
According to officials, Viviano is facing a charge of public drunkenness and similar misconduct.
Viviano's students were taken to another classroom and later the playground as police questioned the drunken educator.
The Peters Township School District confirmed in a statement to WTAE that a staffer initially believed that Viviano was suffering from a medical emergency, and that she was later charged with public drunkenness.
"The Peters Township Police Department conducted an investigation into the incident. As a result, charges have been filed against the teacher for public drunkenness," the district said in a statement.
"We understand that this information will be concerning to families. Please know that the safety and well-being of our students remains our highest priority."
"Our focus remains on supporting the students impacted by this incident and ensuring a safe, stable, and positive learning environment for the remainder of the school year."
It is unclear whether the boozed-up teacher will be fired or placed on leave for the incident.
Public drunkenness in Pennsylvania is classified as a summary offense. The first offense carries a maximum fine of $500. Jail time of up to 90 days is also possible for first-time offenders.
