NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) — A teacher is facing assault charges after an altercation with a student at Crittenden Middle School in Newport News.
The child’s mother, who spoke exclusively with 10 On Your Side’s Kayla Gaskins on Monday, said it was bad enough the principal called her and her husband immediately to come pick up their son, and a protective order was granted against the teacher — Michael A. Rind.
The incident happened during school hours last Friday, after Taylor says Rind wanted her son to leave the classroom. When he didn’t, Rind put her son in a full nelson, a restraint holding, assault position.
The student’s mom, Christina Taylor, sent WAVY a photo of the bruises she says her son received from the assault.
“I think that he should have been arrested at the school, that he should have been brought out in handcuffs,” Taylor said of Rind.
Rind was not arrested, but Newport News police say he has been charged with misdemeanor assault and will go before the judge.
Rind has also been suspended from work in the meantime, acccording to Crittenden Middle’s principal, Natia Smith.
Smith sent this message to parents following the incident:
“Good afternoon Crittenden families. This is your principal Natia Smith calling to notify you about an incident that took place on Friday afternoon.
One of our teachers was involved in an altercation with a student. Several staff members immediately intervened, and we notified the police and Child Protective Services. The student involved was not physically injured, but the teacher has been suspended and is facing additional charges.
We take the safety and well-being of our students and staff very seriously. We are working with the student and family to provide the support they need as a result of this incident. While this incident is a great disappointment, we will not let this affect our school. We will remain focused on teaching and learning, and our students’ success.
As always, I appreciate your support and understanding. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We strive to keep the lines of communication open. Thank you.”