SILVER CITY, N.M. (KRQE) – A teacher and coach at a Silver City Middle School is still on the job after being charged with child abuse and battery earlier this month. The New Mexico Public Education Department is now looking into it.
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In early January, Silver City Police arrested Michael Lopez Sr. According to court documents, he had been drinking and got upset with his son. Police said the argument had escalated when Lopez Senior threw a bassinette toward his son, hitting his 18-month-old grandson’s cheek. He was also accused of using his pointer finger to strike another witness’ forehead.
Police said that was enough to arrest him for child abuse and battery. The middle school teacher and coach is still employed with Silver City Consolidated Schools.
The district is aware of the situation you referenced. This matter is a personal issue unrelated to his employment, duties or responsibilities within the district and not associated with students. The district takes all matters involving staff seriously and follows established policies and procedures to ensure a thorough review. However, as this is a personal matter, it is not within the district’s purview to discuss or disclose details. Personnel matters are confidential, so we cannot comment further on any potential actions.
William Hawkins, Superintendent of Silver City Consolidated Schools
Meanwhile, the Public Education Department received a report of potential misconduct regarding Lopez.
The PED received a report of potential educator misconduct in this matter on January 7, 2025, and its investigation into potential disciplinary action against the educator’s PED-issued licensure is pending and ongoing.