The Rockdale County School District is facing serious accusations from two mothers who claim a teacher assaulted their children.
The incidents, including the arrest of two teachers, sparked calls for systemic change from concerned parents.
Channel 2’s Tessa Fernandez At a press conference, mothers shared their stories.
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The latest incident is said to have occurred at Pine Street Elementary School, where teacher Arie Jones was arrested and charged with assaulting an 8-year-old boy with autism.
The boy’s mother, Yamaya Lyles, reported that her son showed disturbing signs after the incident, stressing that she was not informed of the situation until three days later.
“When I was informed, I was told that my son was being physically and verbally redirected, and that this was not just a redirection,” Lyles said.
Lyles reported that her son showed severe distress following the incident, leading to concerns about his health.
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Melvin McClain, Conyers Middle School’s 2022 Teacher of the Year, was arrested for allegedly hitting a 13-year-old student in the head and stomach more than 20 times during a Dec. 2 classroom incident.
The incident was reportedly captured on classroom surveillance video, raising concerns about surveillance in schools.
“No one called me to let me know this was happening, there were cameras in the classroom and no one was watching,” said Danielle Offett, the mother of a 13-year-old.
This incident, coupled with Lyles’ experience, led to calls for increased monitoring and surveillance of classrooms within the district.
Rockdale County Schools responded to concerns raised by parents with an attorney request letter outlining their commitment to staff development and safety initiatives.
The district said it has an improvement plan in place that focuses on conduct and safety protocols in all schools.
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