Montgomery County Teacher Arrested in Student Assault Case

Zachary Schettone charged with indecent assault and corruption of minors

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:22am

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A 39-year-old third-grade teacher at Gulph Elementary School in Upper Merion, Pennsylvania has been arrested after a former student reported inappropriate contact that allegedly occurred 3 years ago while the student was in Schettone's class. Schettone has been charged with indecent assault, indecent assault of a victim under 13, corruption of minors, and harassment.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about student safety and the trust placed in teachers, as well as the challenges of addressing allegations of abuse that come to light years after the alleged incidents occurred.

The details

According to investigators, Schettone had the student sit on his lap during class and then touched the child inappropriately. The alleged incident occurred three years ago while the student was enrolled in Schettone's third-grade classroom. The former student reported the incident to police in August 2025, prompting an investigation by the Upper Merion Township Police Department.

  • The alleged incident occurred three years ago while the student was in Schettone's third-grade class.
  • The former student reported the incident to police in August 2025.
  • Schettone was placed on leave by the school district in early August 2025, before the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
  • Schettone has not taught in the district or been on school property during the 2025-2026 school year.
  • Schettone's preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 6, 2026.

The players

Zachary Schettone

A 39-year-old third-grade teacher at Gulph Elementary School in Upper Merion, Pennsylvania who has been charged with indecent assault, indecent assault of a victim under 13, corruption of minors, and harassment.

Upper Merion Area School District

The school district that employed Zachary Schettone as a third-grade teacher at Gulph Elementary School.

Upper Merion Township Police Department

The police department that investigated the allegations against Zachary Schettone and filed charges.

Dr. Tamara Thomas Smith

The superintendent of the Upper Merion Area School District who informed families about the charges against Zachary Schettone.

Dr. Gina Ross

The Director of Student Services for the Upper Merion Area School District who is offering counseling services to families, students, and staff.

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What they’re saying

“While we must respect that under the law, all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty and are afforded due process, please know we are taking this situation very seriously.”

— Dr. Tamara Thomas Smith, Superintendent, Upper Merion Area School District

“We fully understand how upsetting and troubling this news will be for our school community. We are committed to communicating with you as clearly and transparently as possible, as this situation is litigated, and we very much appreciate the support and collaboration of the Upper Merion Township Police Department as we work through this challenging time.”

— Dr. Tamara Thomas Smith, Superintendent, Upper Merion Area School District

“This should be a lesson for all the parents to make their kids go forward and say if they do not feel appropriate, you should talk about this more.”

— Mitali Das, King of Prussia Resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on April 6 whether or not to allow Zachary Schettone out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of student safety, the need for thorough background checks and vigilance by school districts, and the challenges of addressing historical allegations of abuse. It underscores the bravery of the former student in coming forward and the responsibility of the community to provide support and resources for victims.