JEANNETTE, Pa. — The former president of the Jeannette Band Parents Association is in trouble tonight, accused of stealing thousands from the parent-run organization meant to help the school’s marching band.
Karen Welshons is being accused of stealing more than $6,000, which was raised by kids and parents through hoagie sales and other fundraisers.
“Their main function is to support our music programs, and a lot of that because of cost is mainly at the high school level," Jeannette marching band director Maria Brecht said.
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Until January, Welschons served as the city's recreation director. She currently sits on the school board.
Channel 11 has learned Welschons paid back some of the money, but detectives say she still owes about $2,500. She allegedly begged not to have the theft reported and said she was having personal issues.
“The students that are involved in the band, we take great pride in everything they do," Superintendent Matthew Jones said. "Not only what they’re doing for our student body but the future as well, they really are the life blood of our district.”
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