ATTLEBORO — The following is a statement from Attleboro Public Schools Superintendent David Sawyer:
“I would like to provide an update on an ongoing and deeply troubling matter in which a teacher allegedly slapped two students in a classroom at Thacher Elementary School on Nov. 26. The Attleboro Police Department has informed me that the teacher has been arrested today and charged with assault and battery.
“The Attleboro Public Schools have been cooperating fully with the Attleboro Police Department in its investigation and the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office in the prosecution of this case. The District continues to support the affected students and their families during this difficult time.
“When allegations were brought to our attention on Nov. 26, the teacher was immediately placed on administrative leave, and we began an internal investigation in accordance with District procedures. The District also notified the Attleboro Police Department and the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, consistent with our policies and procedures.
“The allegations represent a profound betrayal of the trust our community places in educators and the values we hold dear as a public school district. I would like to reiterate that the safety and well-being of our students are our highest priorities. We have taken this situation very seriously since it was brought to our attention, and we are committed to collaborating with our law enforcement partners in their ongoing investigation.”
###