We have so many wonderful teachers in Memphis. But unfortunately teacher abuse happens often enough nationwide that we need to have better discussions about it.
As just one example, see this New York Times op-ed. Journalist Bill Lichtenstein describes how a school left his child in isolation and sometimes locked in restraints by teachers and school administrators. He claims it occurred daily for almost three months.
These cases don’t happen often, but when they do, they carry permanent consequences.
In recent years, we’ve seen news reports detail some other extreme examples. Schools sometimes use bizarre and traumatizing disciplinary measures. The tactics range from stripping children naked and bathing them against their wills to arresting them over mildly bad conduct and leaving them with a police record at 5 years old. These measures are not only ineffective. They can require a lifetime of therapy, serious bodily harm, and permanent emotional damage for these very young victims.
These schools are often overcrowded and lack resources. Many of the children arrive highly medicated through mood-altering drugs. Some of these children have physical or developmental disabilities. All of these problems add up and put stress on both teachers and students.
In some cases, like in Mr. Lichtenstein’s story, the school may not notify the parents. It can take months to figure out the problem.
What to Do When Teacher Abuse Occurs
In cases of teacher abuse, first have your child see a doctor and a psychologist. Talk with your child to make sure you understand everything that happened and exactly how they’re feeling. Make sure to get advice from a therapist about how to comfort your child well and help them develop from here on out in a healthy way.
Then launch a complaint with the school, the school district, and the board. Make sure the authorities know exactly what happened.
Lastly, contact a personal injury attorney experienced with matters like this. They will help make sure you get the compensation you need to pay for medical or mental health needs related to the injury. Our personal injury attorneys in Memphis will launch an immediate investigation and go to court for your child if necessary.
Personal injury lawsuits not only pay for the cost of the injury. They help scare schools from using this kind of detrimental behavior again. With a good personal injury attorney, you can prevent future abuse and protect vulnerable children.
If you believe your child has been injured at school, contact us today at 901-327-1212 to discuss your situation at no charge.