Two elementary school teachers in Texas have been removed from their classroom after allegedly giving their students stickers containing melatonin to keep them quiet. The incident took place at Northgate Crossing Elementary School, where parents reported that their children were given “sleeping stickers” during school hours, which had a negative impact on their behavior at home.
One parent, Lisa Luviano, was shocked when her 4-year-old child came home with a blue sticker adorned with a moon and stars, which the teacher had given her for “sleeping time.” After researching online, Luviano discovered that the sticker was a Sleep ZPatch, a sleeping aid containing melatonin meant for adults over the age of 18.
Concerned about the safety of her child and others, Luviano reported the incident to school administrators and even considered filing criminal charges. However, when the school district failed to take immediate action, Luviano took matters into her own hands by informing other parents about the situation.
Following Luviano’s actions, more parents came forward with similar concerns. Najala Abdullah shared that her son had been acting differently since the school year started, exhibiting signs of distress such as increased crying and changes in eating and sleeping habits. Abdullah, along with other parents, reported the matter to the school district and Child Protective Services. Some parents even took their children to the hospital for examination.
After two weeks of inaction, the school district finally placed the two teachers on administrative leave pending a police investigation. The district stated that the safety of students is their top priority and that they take all allegations of misconduct seriously. The teachers, as well as two paraprofessionals, were placed on leave as a precautionary measure.
The district emphasized that the teachers violated policy by giving students any form of medication without proper authorization. They have asked for the community’s patience as the SISD Police Department conducts their investigation into the matter. The safety and well-being of the students remain paramount, and the district is committed to ensuring a safe learning environment for all.
