Florida principal charged after hosting booze-filled party for 100 teens at her home

Elizabeth Hill-Brodigan, a former Teacher of the Year, faces charges after a house party involving teens and alcohol.

A Florida elementary school principal and a fellow teacher are at the center of controversy following their involvement in an alcohol-filled house party that spiraled out of control.

Elizabeth Hill-Brodigan, 47, principal of Roosevelt Elementary School and a former Teacher of the Year, along with Karly Anderson, a 45-year-old third-grade teacher at the same school, were arrested after the raucous January 19 party.

Reports from Cocoa Beach police allege the event drew approximately 100 teens, some of whom were caught drinking alcohol from coolers inside Hill-Brodigan's home.

The chaos escalated when one teen suffered a medical emergency linked to alcohol consumption. Police claim that when EMS arrived, Hill-Brodigan “turned all the outside lights out and scurried into her home.” First responders were forced to use their vehicles’ auxiliary lighting to navigate the scene.

Adding to the night’s turmoil, a teenager was arrested for driving under the influence near the residence. Anderson, reportedly intoxicated, approached authorities and admitted she was a teacher attending the party.

Hill-Brodigan and Anderson now face charges of child neglect and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The principal also faces charges for violating open house party liquor laws. Both educators were released after posting bond, and Brevard Public Schools confirmed they have been placed on administrative leave.

In a statement, the district said, “We are extremely troubled by these accusations and are fully cooperating with the Cocoa Beach Police Department. Our commitment to student safety remains our top priority.”

Hill-Brodigan, who began her role as principal at Roosevelt Elementary last May, has worked in the district for over 23 years. She has previously been recognized as Teacher of the Year and expressed her dedication to students and families in a message last year, writing, “Students, families, and staff are very close to my heart, I really enjoy what I do.”

The shocking incident has raised serious questions about the judgment of the two educators and their roles in the community.