Full Breakdown
Teacher Accused of Cocaine Use in New London Elementary School
2/20/2026, 7:45:27 PM
Allegations Against Laurie Laubenstein
Laurie Laubenstein, a 58-year-old teacher at Lincoln Elementary School in New London, Wisconsin, is facing serious allegations of cocaine use within the school premises. According to a criminal complaint, Laubenstein has been charged with Possession of Cocaine, with an added modifier for Possession of a Controlled Substance On or Near Certain Places. Her initial court appearance is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
The investigation began following an anonymous tip that raised concerns about Laubenstein's behavior. The informant reported observing her frequently entering the bathroom with her purse and discovering bloody tissues and white powder in the restroom. Despite informing the school principal, the tipster felt their concerns were not adequately addressed.
Discovery and Investigation
Upon receiving the tip, a school resource officer visited Laubenstein's classroom and noted her anxious demeanor. A subsequent search of the bathroom revealed a small amount of white powder, which was later confirmed to be cocaine. On February 12, police returned to the school with a K9 unit, leading to the discovery of additional cocaine in Laubenstein's purse and coat pocket.
During an interview at the New London Police Department, Laubenstein admitted to using cocaine since August 2025, stating she was unaware of the specific amounts. She confessed to using the drug both before and after school hours in the bathrooms of the classroom and teacher's lounge. Laubenstein claimed she always cleaned up after herself and insisted that she never endangered her students.
Official Responses
In response to the incident, the New London School District issued a letter to parents and families, assuring them that at no point were students or staff in danger due to Laubenstein's actions. The district emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe educational environment.
Criticism & Opposition
Some parents and community members have expressed concern regarding the school’s handling of the initial tip. The informant indicated that their concerns were not taken seriously by the school administration, raising questions about the effectiveness of the school's protocols for addressing such allegations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the school district maintains that no students were harmed, the details surrounding the initial report and the response from school officials remain unclear. There is no information on whether any disciplinary actions were taken against Laubenstein prior to the police investigation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Laubenstein told police that she always cleans up after herself and would never put her students in danger.” — Laurie Laubenstein
- “The letter to parents said that at no point were students or staff in harm’s way.” — New London School District Letter to Parents
This case highlights the serious implications of substance abuse within educational settings and raises important questions about the measures in place to protect students and staff.
