WACO, Texas (KWTX) — A former Waco elementary school teacher, Amber Escamilla, 46, has been arrested and charged after allegedly using an electronic dog whistle to force compliance from a 6-year-old autistic student.
Escamilla, who previously taught at Bell’s Hill Elementary School, is facing a third-degree felony charge of injury to a child or disabled person, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. She remained in custody Wednesday at the McLennan County Jail with bond set at $3,000.
The allegations surfaced following a referral from Child Protective Services (CPS) to Waco ISD Police. According to an affidavit, Escamilla used the high-pitched device on the child “when he got overstimulated,” despite being aware that he was sensitive to sound and required earmuffs during school hours.
The child’s mother reported that her son would often return home crying, particularly distressed by the sound of school fire alarms.
Investigators say that the school principal confiscated the device in November 2024, after staff expressed concern. One colleague recalled Escamilla saying she used the whistle “when the victim gets loud,” claiming it stopped him immediately.
While Escamilla told police the device was purchased for playground use and used only once, a witness later contradicted her claim. The witness stated she personally observed Escamilla using the whistle in class, causing the student to cover his ears and plead for her to stop.
Waco ISD confirmed that Escamilla, who had been with the district for less than a year, is no longer employed.
“The actions under review do not reflect the values or expectations we hold for our staff,” said Waco ISD spokesperson Wendy Sledd. “Waco ISD remains committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students.”
District police and staff are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
