Classes at Charity Secondary School were disrupted on Thursday, January 22, after a senior teacher, Alicia Moore, was assaulted by a Grade Nine student during school hours.
The incident occurred around 9:30 AM while Ms. Moore was conducting routine supervision and intervening to address a student’s inappropriate behavior. Reports indicate that the situation escalated dramatically, resulting in the student becoming violent. Ms. Moore suffered visible injuries to her face and arms and was reportedly bitten during the altercation.
Following the incident, Ms. Moore was taken to a hospital for medical treatment. After receiving care and being discharged, she returned to the school, where meetings were convened with senior education officials, regional authorities, and representatives from the teachers’ union.
In the wake of the assault, teachers temporarily withdrew from their classroom duties, voicing concerns regarding escalating student indiscipline and aggression. They emphasized the urgent need for better protection for educators.
The Department of Education responded by engaging the student’s parent, and the student has been suspended pending ongoing investigations. Authorities are also considering transferring the student to another school.
School administrators acknowledged that this incident highlights broader behavioral challenges at Charity Secondary School, which serves approximately 750 students. Concerns about bullying and misconduct had been previously raised, even following a recent anti-bullying initiative conducted earlier this month.
Education officials have condemned the assault as unacceptable and have pledged full support for Ms. Moore. Additionally, they are reviewing measures to enhance the safety and well-being of both teachers and students as the investigation continues.
