Polk County Middle School Teacher Retained Despite Prior Methamphetamine Charges, Arrested for Probation Violation

Winter Haven, FL – Shane Christopher Olson, a teacher at Boone Middle School, was arrested a day after his 54th birthday on October 2, 2025, for violation of probation after failing a drug test, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The probation stemmed from a prior charge of methamphetamine possession and drug paraphernalia. Olson was not terminated from his position with Polk County Public Schools following a May 27, 2025, arrest.

The October arrest occurred while Olson remained employed as a teacher, highlighting the district’s decision to retain him despite the earlier drug-related incident.

His previous arrest on May 27, according to a press release from the Winter Haven Police Department, occurred when officers encountered Olson’s red Toyota Prius during a proactive patrol at Lyons Park at approximately 10:00 p.m. City parks are closed between sunset and dawn. Olson stated he was unaware of the closure, had stopped to use his phone to avoid texting while driving, and was smoking a substance given to him by friends. A pipe in his possession tested positive for methamphetamine.

A vehicle search yielded a vial with a white crystal-like substance, another container in a black bag, and two additional pipes, all testing positive for methamphetamine. Olson was booked into Polk County Jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia (smoking device).

Polk County Public Schools released this statement to Eye In The Sky News: “The District is aware of the recent legal proceedings involving the employee and will continue to monitor and take appropriate actions consistent with the law while preserving and observing the highest level of safety for our students.”

Some parents have expressed their lack of confidence in the district’s handling of the matter, voicing concerns over student safety. Mr. Olson remains in custody, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s processing website. Nothing further at this time.

Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Winter Haven Police Dept., Polk County Public Schools