Collinsville Teacher Assault Charge Filed
- mike33692
- 2 hours ago
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Collinsville teacher assault charge filed after classroom incident
A Collinsville teacher assault charge has been filed against a former special education teacher accused of striking a student in the classroom.
Authorities say Michelle Francis, a former teacher at Herald Elementary School, is charged with misdemeanor assault and battery on a student.
The incident occurred last month, and the teacher is no longer employed by the district after resigning.
Collinsville teacher assault charge stems from classroom altercation
The Collinsville teacher assault charge follows an investigation into an incident involving a special needs student.
Police say the student initially struck the teacher, but investigators determined the teacher’s response violated her training.
According to an affidavit, Francis allegedly hit the student in the face, knocking the child’s glasses off.
Education standards for student safety and conduct are guided by agencies like the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Surveillance video and staff report triggered investigation
The Collinsville teacher assault charge was supported by both video evidence and a staff report.
Officials say surveillance video clearly showed the incident, which police described as deliberate.
“It was clear, very clear, that this was not an accident or anything, it was a very deliberate assault on a student,” said Collinsville Police Chief Matthew Burke.
Authorities say a paraprofessional reported the incident, noting the teacher described her actions as a “knee-jerk reaction.”
Law enforcement investigations at the local level are conducted by agencies like the Collinsville Police Department.
District action and case status
The Collinsville teacher assault charge also prompted action by the school district.
Officials say the teacher was initially placed on leave before resigning one day prior to a scheduled termination hearing.
Police say the district followed proper protocol by reporting the incident.
“This is someone who was specifically trained to handle special needs kids, definitely should have known better,” Burke said.
The student’s family has been kept informed, and other parents in the classroom were notified.
Court records show Francis has entered a not guilty plea, and the case remains active.
School safety policies and reporting requirements are also supported by agencies like the U.S. Department of Education.
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