Teacher Arrested After Causing Student to Suffer Rug Burn
A Tennessee school employee is facing criminal charges after authorities say a nonverbal 9-year-old student was forcibly dragged across a classroom floor, leaving him with a severe carpet burn.
According to investigators, the incident happened on March 19 at Selmer Elementary School while school was in session. The teacher allegedly grabbed the child by his legs and pulled him several feet across a rug.
The child was crying and left the room with another teacher, who saw the child reaching for his back. By the time he was checked by school staff, he had a large, raw abrasion across his back consistent with friction from the carpet.
The injury was checked out by the school nurse. The teacher, a 49-year-old woman, was arrested for assault. She has since bailed out of jail.
The incident has sparked scrutiny over classroom supervision, staff training, and protocols for handling students with special needs, particularly those who are nonverbal and may not be able to report mistreatment themselves.
The incident comes just days after a faculty member from the same school district allegedly attacked a student. The 65-year-old lunch lady from Selmer Middle School was arrested on March 13 after allegedly slapping a 15-year-old student in the back of the head. The student did not suffer any injuries during the attack. That woman has also been released from jail.
Teachers and Physical Abuse
When a teacher hits a student, the legal and professional consequences can be serious, but the outcome depends on state law, school policy, and the specific circumstances.
- Corporal punishment vs. abuse: In some states, limited corporal punishment (like paddling) is still technically allowed in public schools, though it is increasingly rare and often restricted by district policy.
- Criminal consequences: If a teacher’s actions are considered unreasonable or harmful, they may face criminal charges such as assault, battery, or child abuse. This is especially likely if the student is injured or vulnerable.
- Civil liability: Families may also pursue civil claims against the teacher and possibly the school district. These cases often argue negligence, excessive force, or failure to properly supervise or train staff.
- School discipline and licensing: Even if criminal charges are not filed, schools can impose disciplinary action, including suspension or termination. State licensing boards may also revoke or suspend a teacher’s credentials.
Contact Us Today
Teachers should be helping students learn, not abusing them or even touching them in any way. Teaching can be a tough job, but children should not be physically punished by their instructors.
Has your child been injured by someone else at a school, daycare, or other facility? If so, contact a Mt. Juliet child injury lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC today. We will fight to protect your family’s rights and secure the compensation your child deserves. Let us provide the compassionate representation you need. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (615) 622-6060.
Source:
nypost.com/2026/04/23/us-news/tennessee-teacher-allegedly-dragged-nonverbal-student-9-across-rug-leaving-him-with-gruesome-burn/
