Ethan Wells, 29, worked as a choir teacher at Siloam Springs Middle School in Siloam Springs, Benton County, Arkansas, United States. He was named the Arkansas Choral Directors Association Region 6 Jr. High Distinguished Director for 2021.

On December 14, 2021, Wells attended the Siloam Springs High School board meeting. During the meeting, he was awarded a plague by Julianna Tufts, who is also a choir teacher at the same school.

On February 17, 2023, the Siloam Springs School District received information alleging inappropriate activity by Wells with a student during the 2021-2022 school year. Upon receipt of the allegation, the district shared the information with local law enforcement authorities.

On February 20, 2023, Wells was placed on administrative leave. On February 23, 2023, he was arrested in connection with first-degree sexual assault.

Wells was booked into the Benton County Jail in Bentonville, Benton County, Arkansas without bond. Prosecutors have yet to file a formal charge against him.

Siloam Springs School District superintendent Jody Wiggins recommended immediate termination of Wells’ contract. The school board may either accept or reject the recommendation.

Siloam Springs was incorporated on December 22, 1881. The city’s incumbent mayor Judy Nation is the city’s first elected female mayor.

Established in 1919, John Brown University is located in Siloam Springs. One of its alumni is the late John Osteen, who founded Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, USA.