Three children in California were taken to the hospital after allegedly receiving cannabis-infused gummies from a substitute teacher during an after-school program. According to reports, the children began feeling unwell after eating the gummies and were later evaluated in an emergency department. Authorities say the incident involved three elementary school students who reportedly consumed gummies containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. The case has led to a lawsuit against the teacher and the school district.
The incident reportedly occurred in April 2025 at Sierra Elementary School in Lancaster, California, which is part of the Lancaster School District in Los Angeles County. According to a civil complaint filed by the children’s family, 59-year-old substitute teacher Felicia Boyd allegedly distributed dragon-fruit flavored cannabis gummies to three brothers aged 8, 9, and 11 years.
The gummies reportedly contained tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. The complaint states that the teacher gave the gummies while celebrating the youngest child’s birthday during the after-school program.
According to the lawsuit, the teacher allegedly told the children the gummies would help them “relax” and did not inform them that the candy contained cannabis. The packaging reportedly resembled ordinary candy, making it difficult for the children to recognize it as a cannabis product.
After consuming the candy, the children reportedly developed symptoms such as fatigue and unusual behavior. One of the children reportedly said he could not feel his body, while another complained of dizziness and feeling unwell. Family members later took them to a hospital where doctors evaluated them for suspected cannabis exposure.
Reports state that the children were treated and later released after medical evaluation.
The children’s family has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The complaint names the substitute teacher, the school, and the Lancaster School District as defendants.
The lawsuit alleges negligence in staff supervision, hiring practices, and safety protocols meant to protect students. It also claims that a controlled substance was distributed to minors on school property.
According to the complaint, the family is seeking damages for medical costs, emotional distress, and alleged failure by the school district to properly supervise the substitute teacher during the after-school program.
A hearing related to the case is expected to take place in 2026.
Health authorities have reported increasing cases of accidental cannabis ingestion among children in regions where cannabis products are legally available. Edible products are a particular concern because they often resemble regular candy or snacks.
This similarity can make it difficult for children to distinguish cannabis products from ordinary sweets. As a result, accidental consumption may occur if the products are not stored safely.
Cannabis ingestion in children can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, lethargy, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and in some cases breathing difficulties that require emergency medical attention.
Public health agencies recommend that cannabis products be kept in secure containers and stored out of reach of children.
Schools typically maintain strict policies prohibiting the possession or distribution of controlled substances on campus. Staff members responsible for supervising children are expected to follow safety guidelines designed to protect students.
School district officials reportedly stated that the safety of students remains a top priority and that the district is cooperating with investigations into the incident.
The legal proceedings in this case will determine whether proper safety measures were followed and whether oversight procedures were adequate.
The case involving the alleged distribution of cannabis gummies to children is currently under legal review. Authorities and school officials are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident while the civil lawsuit proceeds in court.
(Rh/SS/MSM)