Two 19-year-old high school students were arrested for allegedly assaulting a teacher at Dillard High School in Florida on Thursday. Jayvis McClover and Roddrick McQueen approached a male teacher around 2 p.m. and proceeded to threaten and physically attack him, according to reports from the Fort Lauderdale police.
The teacher was punched multiple times in the face and head, causing him to collapse to the ground and curl up in a fetal position to protect himself from further harm. Video footage obtained by Local 10 captured one of the suspects on top of the teacher during the altercation, with school staff intervening to separate them.
Following the incident, the teacher suffered injuries to his face and reported back pain. McClover and McQueen were charged with battery on a public or private education employee and subsequently released from custody after their court appearances. They were ordered to stay away from the teacher and the school premises.
The attack on the teacher was condemned by Florida Board of Education member Daniel Foganholi Sr., who described it as “beyond disgraceful.” He emphasized the importance of creating a safe learning environment for both educators and students, stressing the need for stronger disciplinary policies, improved security measures, and a culture that values and protects teachers.
In response to the incident, Foganholi called for real solutions to ensure that schools remain safe spaces for everyone. He underscored the significance of respecting and safeguarding teachers, students, and staff members within educational institutions.
The assault at Dillard High School serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by educators in maintaining a secure and conducive learning environment. It highlights the importance of implementing measures to prevent such incidents and protect the well-being of school personnel.