An Alabama elementary school teacher was arrested this week and charged with willful abuse of a child under 18 after a video went viral showing her allegedly beating a boy with a belt more than 20 times.
Cottage Hill Christian Academy said the boy was Nicole Staples’ son and the incident took place at her “personal residence,” WALA reported.
In the video, the woman identified as Staples yells obscenities at the child and beats him for not finishing his chores. She is also seen slamming the boy to the ground by his hair and jerking him back up again by his hair.
WALA described the video, which apparently went viral, as “very disturbing” and “hard to watch.”
The station did not give the boy’s age.
The school said it placed Staples, 44, on administrative leave when it learned about the allegations and fired her when she was arrested.
“Cottage Hill Christian Academy prioritizes the wellbeing of children above all else,” said Head of School Chris Brazell. “We will always act promptly, transparently, and responsibly when matters arise that may impact the safety or integrity of our school community.”
The school said it was cooperating with state and local officials as they continue their investigation.
According to AL.com, Staples was a 2nd grade teacher at the shcool and was named co-Teacher of the Year in May.
Staples is to appear in court for a bond hearing on Friday, WALA said.
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[Featured image: Nicole Staples/Mobile County Sheriff’s Office]
