A former Lakeside Elementary School secretary admitted Wednesday that she embezzled thousands of dollars from a school account.

Sandy Hawkes, 36, pleaded guilty in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of theft.

The charge led to her resignation after it came to light that she had been taking money from the Somers Classified Employee Union account, of which she was the treasurer.

Hawkes told police she embezzled approximately $5,000 from the account, although an audit indicated approximately $8,970 was missing. If the defense and prosecution cannot agree on the amount of restitution Hawkes must pay, a separate hearing will be held to resolve restitution.

Her plea comes as part of an agreement that states the Flathead County Attorney’s Office will recommend a suspended sentence of six years to the Montana Department of Corrections, while Hawkes will retain the right to argue for a deferred sentence.

A sentencing hearing is set for Jan. 16.