WOODBRIDGE – Police have arrested a former Colonia High School teacher they say used $1,771.92 worth of Project Graduation money to buy personal items, including a backyard shed.

Mary Sue Fisco, a school teacher for 36 years, has been charged with theft by deception, Woodbridge police said in a statement on Tuesday.

Fisco, 59, of Edison, was in charge of Colonia High School’s Project Graduation Fund.

Project Graduation money is used to pay for an organized, adult-supervised and alcohol-free post-graduation party in lieu of student-run events with alcohol or drugs. The event is paid for with tax dollars and students pay a fee to attend.

Police said one of the items Fisco bought was an 8-foot by 6-foot shed.

After her arrest, Fisco was released on $5,000 bail.

Police said she no longer teaches at the school.

"As a result of the investigation, she retired March 1st," said police Capt. Roy Hoppock.

Anyone with information about the suspected thefts is asked to call Det. Richard Yanak @732-634-7700 ext. 2347.