Former President of San Jose Elementary School Association Arrested for Alleged $400,000 Check Fraud

The former president of the Schallenberger Home and School Association, an organization supporting enrichment programs at Schallenberger Elementary School in San Jose, has been apprehended on suspicion of embezzling over $400,000. The arrest follows an investigation initiated by the San Jose Police Department in response to an online report received last July, which raised concerns about potential theft within the association.

According to police spokesperson Stacie Shih, the probe uncovered a series of questionable financial transactions that transpired between 2019 and 2023. The former association president, a 51-year-old San Jose woman, emerged as the primary suspect. Allegedly, she wrote approximately 45 unauthorized checks to herself, falsely claiming reimbursement for services that were never rendered.

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect and subsequently executed a search warrant at her residence. On Tuesday, she was taken into custody and booked into Santa Clara County jail on charges of grand theft and forgery.

The San Jose Unified School District released a statement expressing its commitment to collaborating with prosecutors on the case. The district emphasized its dedication to honesty and integrity, underscoring the seriousness with which it regards any allegations that contradict these values.

Individuals with information pertaining to the investigation are urged to contact Detective Jason Wellman of the SJPD Financial Crimes Unit at 408-277-4521. Alternatively, tips can be provided anonymously to Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at 408-947-7867 (STOP).