Parents Demand Answers Amid Investigation of Alleged Abuse at Anaheim Elementary School
Anaheim, Calif. – An investigation into possible physical abuse of special needs students at Imperial Elementary School has left parents distraught and seeking answers. Juliette Herrera and Amanda Allen revealed their 7-year-olds are among four potential victims identified by Anaheim police. Herrera’s daughter has been "terrified" and begging to avoid school, while Allen expressed anger over not having been notified about any injuries to her son, who was reportedly targeted by a teacher known to exhibit abusive behavior.
Witness accounts suggest the alleged abuse has been ongoing for at least a year, involving verbal and physical mistreatment of first and second graders with behavioral disorders. Allen recounted an incident where her son was pinned against a filing cabinet by a table pushed toward him, a claim that aligns with his complaints of stomachaches upon returning home.
In light of their children’s increasing behavioral issues, both mothers have been frustrated by the lack of timely communication from school officials, who only alerted parents last Thursday. Herrera’s daughter corroborated claims of mistreatment, mentioning that the teacher had lied about her actions.
Orange Unified School District Superintendent Michael Christensen stated that the district is aware of the misconduct allegations involving a former staff member, asserting the priority of student safety and cooperation with law enforcement during the investigation.
As parents demand transparency and better safeguards, including the potential installation of surveillance cameras in classrooms, Anaheim police plan to present their findings to the district attorney, who will determine if charges should be filed. The case continues to unfold, leaving families seeking justice and reassurance for their children’s safety in educational environments.
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