A teacher in Fort St. John is facing serious criminal charges, though a publication ban is restricting what can be publicly reported.
Matthew McColm, a grade one teacher at Ma Margaret Murray School, has been charged with possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material. Court records list the alleged offence date as Aug. 4, 2025.
According to the B.C. government’s online teaching registry, McColm has entered into an agreement not to teach while an investigation into the matter continues. He signed an undertaking not to practice teaching on April 12.
School District 60 said they are aware of the information that has been circulating regarding the criminal charges that have been laid against a teacher from the School District.
“The District is aware of the matter and on being informed by the police of the charges took immediate steps to ensure the individual was not present in our schools,” said Dr. Stephen Petrucci, Superintendent and CEO of School District 60.
Petrucci added that the School District has not been provided any additional information by the police or crown counsel and is aware that there is a publication ban in place with respect to this matter.
“We have been informed by the police that this matter does not involve our students. We have no other information. The School District’s focus is on our students and making sure they have safe and welcoming environments in which to learn,” said Dr. Petrucci.
RCMP say the publication ban limits what police can disclose. In a statement, RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Kris Clark said police are not aware of anything suggesting a direct connection between the charge and the accused’s occupation, adding that the investigation remains ongoing.
McColm was arrested on March 23 and released from custody the following day. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 25.
-M. Popove/CJDC
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