UPDATE: A special education teacher in Millard County, 56-year-old Melissa Diane Davis, has been arrested and charged with child abuse following a shocking incident in her classroom involving an 8-year-old student with disabilities. This urgent situation has raised significant concerns about classroom safety and the treatment of vulnerable students.
According to reports from KUTV, Davis faces a third-degree felony charge after a video emerged showing her hitting the student multiple times with an open hand. The disturbing footage reveals blows to the student’s arm, torso, and possibly the head. Witnesses indicate that the student, who is nonverbal and has multiple disabilities, was struck after allegedly hitting Davis on the arm.
Eyewitness accounts detail that Davis had previously warned the student, stating, “if he hit her, she would hit him back.” An affidavit notes that another observer reported multiple instances of Davis striking the child before the recorded event, though the timing of these observations has not been disclosed.
In response to the allegations, the Millard School District acted swiftly, terminating Davis’s employment at Fillmore Elementary School. The district emphasized that the well-being of its students is their top priority and has notified law enforcement, who are now actively investigating the situation.
The incident has sparked urgent discussions surrounding the need for enhanced vigilance and appropriate training in special education settings. The Millard School District has committed to reviewing and strengthening its procedures and staff training to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
As the investigation unfolds, community members and parents are expressing outrage and concern over the treatment of students with disabilities. This incident highlights the critical importance of maintaining a safe atmosphere where all students can thrive.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story continues to unfold.
