Michael John Daigler
In November 2025, the Valdese Police Department was notified by parents residing in the Valdese community regarding the alleged dissemination of obscene materials to minors involving a former Burke County Public Schools teacher, identified as Michael Daigler. Upon receiving this information, the Valdese Police Department contacted the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force through the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) and initiated a joint investigation. After an extensive investigation and the execution of a search warrant at his residence located in Burke County, Michael John Daigler was arrested this morning at a location in Caldwell County.
According to a statement from the school system, the Valdese Police Department notified the Burke County Schools today of Daigler’s arrest. School district officials became aware of the ongoing investigation of Daigler in mid-November and have cooperated fully with law enforcement. The system suspended Daigler with pay on November 10 pending the outcome of the investigation. The district later suspended him without pay on December 17. Superintendent Dr. Mike Swan has recommended Daigler for termination; that recommendation will go before the Burke County Board of Education at its next regular meeting on January 26.
According to the statement, Daigler’s last assignment with the Burke County Public Schools was as a teacher at Valdese Elementary School. The district says it has followed all due process requirements related to employee rights. State law requires that if a district is aware of a violation of criminal law by an educator in this manner, the district report the educator to the State Board of Education to determine if a revocation of their teaching license is appropriate. The Burke County Public Schools pre-employment process includes thorough background checks on all potential employees. If criminal allegations arise during employment, the district immediately cooperates with law enforcement to ensure a complete and timely investigation.
Superintendent Dr. Mike Swan said, “Our priority is the wellbeing and safety of our students, and we are prepared to provide support for students and staff as needed. We have conducted our own internal investigation into this matter and continue to fully support law enforcement in their investigation.” Daigler was originally employed with the school system on March 11, 2015. Following his arrest, he was incarcerated in the Burke County Jail under $500,000 secured bond. No court date was listed. This investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is urged to contact the Valdese Police Department at 828-879-2101. Updated information will be released as it becomes available.
Story: Rob Eastwood-WHKY