A Florida teacher was arrested after hitting a 4-year-old student with autism twice at school, according to reports.
According to the local station, the school district said Stacey Strnad, 48, has been suspended from her job at Rivers Elementary School in Edgewater pending the investigation. disguise 2,
Edgewater police charged Strnad with child abuse.
According to a report received by police, the teacher is part of an “exceptional student education” program, which is for students who may have disabilities. miami herald,
The teacher hit the 4-year-old boy in the arm when he didn’t do what he told him to do, the report said. In another incident, he “forcefully” pushed her against the wall when she tried to escape.
According to the report, staff members told police they “couldn’t believe what they saw”. He claimed this was not a one-time incident, adding that Strnad was also aggressive with other students who have autism or are non-verbal.
Staff members told authorities that teachers used to pull students brutally and hit them on their hands.
While Strnad was placed on leave, Volusia County Schools released a statement.
“Volusia County Schools followed all protocols to immediately respond to this incident, and we are fully cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation of this matter,” the statement obtained by WESH 2 said. “VCS condones any behavior that jeopardizes the safety of our students.” And our parents take their faith very seriously.”
The statement added, “We will continue to strive to promote a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. Any behavior that is not consistent with these standards will not be tolerated.”
According to the Miami Herald, the boy’s father and the Department of Children and Families have been made aware of the situation.