Charlotte School Community Shocked by Administrator’s Charges
Charlotte, NC – The Charlotte Country Day School community was rocked by the recent news of serious allegations against Scott Waybright, a former long-serving administrator. On Friday night, Waybright was charged with multiple felony offenses related to secret peeping, a disturbing development that has left many feeling unsettled.
What Happened
According to David Mancos, the interim head of Charlotte Country Day School, police discovered between ten to twelve images of potential students and employees on Waybright’s school-issued laptop. The charges against Waybright stem from claims that he used a mobile phone to secretly photograph individuals without their consent in public or semi-public spaces. Mancos emphasized that there is currently no evidence indicating the use of hidden cameras in private areas, such as bathrooms or locker rooms.
When Did This Occur
The investigation began following an incident reported by a teacher in 2023, who alleged that Waybright took unauthorized photos of a student. The school’s administration initially conducted a search of Waybright’s phone but found no evidence of wrongdoing at that time. However, after further concerns arose, a private investigator was hired in November 2024. This led to the shocking discovery of hundreds of inappropriate images, many reportedly taken in places like grocery stores and swimming pools, as detailed in an affidavit filed with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD).
Where Are We Now
Waybright was dismissed from his position as assistant head of school for academics on December 2 and will not be returning to the school. In light of these unsettling allegations, Mancos revealed that the school has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of its students and staff moving forward. This includes forming a task force to guide the investigation and partnering with national experts to strengthen existing policies.
Why This Matters
The accusations against Waybright have raised significant concerns within the school community. Mancos reassured parents and staff that Charlotte Country Day School has effective policies and protocols in place aimed at preventing misconduct. He noted that all new hires undergo extensive background checks, and an added “instant arrest notification” system has been established to alert the school in the event of an employee’s arrest.
As part of the measures to enhance security, the school plans to hire two additional security staff members, both of whom are retired police officers, to be in place starting January 2025. A risk management expert will also be brought on board to oversee school planning moving forward.
Community Reaction
The Charlotte Country Day School community is understandably shaken by these allegations. Mancos conveyed the seriousness of the situation in a message to parents, stating, “We never take for granted the privilege of educating your children. It is our duty to ensure the safety of all our community members.” He expressed a commitment to transparency and a dedication to addressing any potential issues as they arise.
As the investigation continues, many in the community are hoping that these measures will help restore confidence and safety within the school environment. The allegations against Waybright serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in ensuring the well-being of students and staff alike.
