A Special Education Assistant Charged with Aggravated Battery of a Child at South Side Elementary School
A shocking incident took place at Parker Elementary School on the South Side, where a special education assistant has been charged with aggravated battery of a child. Tamika Odeh, 44, allegedly placed an 8-year-old student in a chokehold and threw him to the lunchroom floor, causing serious injuries.
The incident occurred on November 3 at the school located at 6800 South Stewart Avenue in Englewood. Prosecutors stated that Odeh’s actions led to the child suffering “serious neck injuries” after hitting his head on a chair. The boy required medical treatment at a hospital for his injuries.
According to a Chicago Police Department report, Odeh then dragged the injured child out of the lunchroom. The report mentioned that the boy suffered ligament damage to the neck and required physical therapy for his recovery.
Despite the severity of the incident, Judge Rivanda Doss Beal denied the state’s detention petition and released Odeh with strict orders to stay away from the victim, his family, and anyone under the age of 18. Odeh was removed from her duties at the school on November 7.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for Chicago Public Schools emphasized the district’s commitment to the safety and well-being of students and staff. The spokesperson stated, “The safety and well-being of our staff and students is a top priority at Chicago Public Schools (CPS), and a foundational condition for our school communities.”
It was noted that CPS actively works to prevent physical abuse and educates staff, students, and leaders on reporting procedures. Additionally, CPS employees are required to live in the city of Chicago within six months of being hired, with limited exceptions.
While the CPD arrest report listed Odeh’s home address in suburban Oak Lawn, sources indicate that she lists a Chicago address in her CPS personnel file.
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