NEBRASKA CITY – Suspects in a life skills abuse scandal at Nebraska City High School are progressing through the court system.

Two para-professionals have entered not guilty pleas to misdemeanor negligent abuse charges and a certified teacher is schedule for arraignment in district court on a felony intentional abuse allegation.

The Otoe County Attorney’s Office brought the charges after Nebraska City police investigated a mother’s complaint of abuse involving a 17-year-old student, who is described in a  police affidavit as autistic with heart issues that make strenuous activity a health risk.

The para-professionals are charged with allowing the student to be placed in a dangerous situation on Sept. 13, which is one of four days the student brought a tape recorder with him to school. However, Otoe County Attorney Jennifer Panko-Rahe said the allegations are not necessarily limited to Sept. 13.

Former teacher Melissa Valenta is scheduled to appear in district court on Feb. 27.

Police questioned the student on Oct. 4 and obtained footage from the school of a gym class.

In a January press release, school Superintendent Mark Fritch said the school acted immediately when it was made aware of the allegations on Nov. 3.

He did not elaborate on what those actions were, but said none of the employees involved are still working with students.

He said the school was able to hire staff during the winter break for the life skills program.