Trial set for teacher accused of pouring nitrogen on student

WHEATON, Ill. (AP) - A suburban Chicago high school teacher has decided not to enter into a plea agreement and will go on trial for allegedly pouring liquid nitrogen on a student.

DuPage County Judge James Konetski set a July 22 jury trial date for 64-year-old Garry Brodersen, a Bartlett High School chemistry teacher. He is accused of pouring liquid nitrogen on a student's chest and groin during a science experiment last spring.

Brodersen, who is free on $1,500 bail, is charged with misdemeanor reckless conduct. His alleged actions left the student with burns to his groin and a finger.

Elgin Area School District U-46 placed Brodersen on paid leave pending an investigation shortly after the allegations became public. A district spokeswoman on Wednesday did not respond to a request for an update on Brodersen's status.