A new indictment has rocked the Krum Independent School District as former band director Carol Turner, 60, faces a total of 11 child sex abuse charges.
The allegations, spanning from 1996 through 1998, include nine counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact and two counts of sexual assault of a child.
Turner, whose tenure at Krum ISD dates back to August 1991, was indicted on May 1. She was subsequently booked into Denton County Jail on May 3 but released the same day on a $50,000 bond.
The accused, whose professional roles extended beyond band director to include fine arts coordinator, had a significant presence in the district’s extracurricular activities, according to Texas Scorecard. She was known for sponsoring an after-school “Cool Cats Piano Club” for elementary students and providing private flute lessons, as indicated on her Instagram account.
In response to the indictment, Krum ISD Superintendent Jason Cochran issued a statement emphasizing the district’s commitment to student safety:
“Krum Independent School District acknowledges the recent grand jury indictment and subsequent arrest of former employee Carol Turner, who has not been affiliated with the district since July 2023. While the reported events date back several decades, Krum ISD treats these allegations with utmost seriousness. The safety and well-being of our students remain our foremost concern.”
Cochran further detailed the district’s actions upon learning of the victim’s disclosure, noting that Turner was promptly placed on administrative leave and barred from accessing any Krum ISD properties or participating in any school events or events associated with the district whatsoever.
“We are committed to cooperating fully with authorities throughout this process and ensuring a safe learning environment for all members of our school community,” said Krum ISD in the conclusion of its statement.
Turner has a master’s degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas in 1993, per Scorecard. Despite her initial one-year teaching certificate expiring in 1988, she acquired a Texas teaching certificate in all-level music in 1989, valid for life.
As of May 8, the State Board for Educator Certification records state that Turner is currently under investigation by the Texas Education Agency.
Texas imposes no statute of limitations on indecency with a child or sexual assault, both of which are second-degree felonies carrying a penalty ranging from 2 to 20 years in prison.
