Former Morgan Hill Preschool Teacher Sentenced to 6 Months in Jail After Spiking Sippy Cups

A former Morgan Hill preschool teacher was sentenced to six months in Santa Clara County jail and four years of probation after pleading no contest  to attempted child endangerment for dosing toddlers’ cups with sleeping pills.

Deborah Gratz, 59, of Hollister worked at Kiddie Academy when she was arrested on March 11 by Morgan Hill police. She has since been fired.

“This is a case about betrayal,’’ Deputy District Attorney Sumerle Davis said. “Ms. Gratz betrayed the parents and the trust of these innocent children who look up to their teachers for every need, from their ABCs to quenching their thirst.”

A number of parents and former co-workers were in court Monday for the sentencing. At least four parents testified as to how Gratz’s actions have affected their children.

Her sentence begins Sept. 27 and includes four days for time served.

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