Two teachers at an Oklahoma elementary school are facing accusations of assault against students, with incidents involving a 10-year-old and a 5-year-old occurring months apart.
Elizabeth Kay Sutton and Ottoria McClung have been charged with assault and battery on a student, with the charges filed in Comanche County District Court in Elgin, located about an hour from Oklahoma City, The Lawton Constitution reported.
On January 8, authorities were called to Elgin Elementary School after Principal Gabe Winn reported that Sutton, 38, allegedly grabbed a 10-year-old boy, forced him back into his seat, and struck him in the face.
Security camera footage reportedly shows Sutton moving her arm toward the boy’s face, causing him to turn his head away, followed by a swing that made the boy’s head snap back upon impact.
After lunch, the boy’s teacher noticed a red mark on his face. Sutton explained to police that the boy had been difficult since returning after the break, claiming she used a hold taught to her as a paraprofessional and did not intend to harm the student.
Sutton, who had been a teacher’s aide for five months, was arrested and pleaded not guilty to the charge. She was subsequently dismissed from her position, according to Superintendent Nate Meraz.
In a separate incident months later, McClung, a personal care assistant at the same school, was allegedly seen carrying a five-year-old student in a chokehold down a hallway.
A witness reported to police that the child’s face was red, and he was crying and hitting McClung’s arm while she reportedly said, “I can’t deal with this,” on March 13, according to the outlet.
McClung, 37, was arrested and dismissed from her job following these allegations.
Reacting to the incidents, Meraz stated that “all of the appropriate authorities were notified immediately” and reassured parents that all employees undergo background checks and reference checks before employment.
“Both of these instances were reported to administration by fellow employees, reflecting a culture of accountability here,” Meraz stated.
“My philosophy on personnel is this: If we have reasonable hesitation in the interview process, we will not employ you. Once employed, if you harm a student, you will be terminated. We are here to educate kids in a safe environment. Elgin Public Schools’ highest priority is the safety and well-being of its students.”
Both Sutton and McClung are scheduled to appear in court on May 20.
