In February of 2026, the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office received a report indicating a North Cottonwood Elementary School Teacher physically abused several children during the course of her employment. Due to the seriousness of the allegations, the case was assigned to the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) for follow-up. Through further investigation, the teacher was identified as Jandee Marie Smart, age 43, of Cottonwood. After interviewing numerous witnesses and victims, a Felony Arrest Warrant was issued for Smart on April 2nd, 2026, for the following charges:
245(a)(1) PC – Assault with a Deadly Weapon
245(a)(4) PC – Assault Resulting in Great Bodily Injury
