Kindergarten Assault in Salem, New Jersey Sparks Investigation

A kindergarten aide at John Fenwick Academy is accused of violently forcing a 5-year-old girl into a chair and hitting her head against a metal cabinet, leaving the child with multiple bruises. The young student’s mother, Mariah, has expressed her outrage and is demanding answers from the school and authorities.

According to a witness account, the aide reportedly grabbed the girl and forcefully placed her in a chair, causing her head to strike the cabinet. The mother was notified by the principal around noon that her daughter had misbehaved, and less than two hours later, she was called to the school, where staff informed her of the incident. When she inquired about police involvement and the whereabouts of the paraprofessional involved, she was told the aide was sent home and that the school was conducting an internal investigation.

Mariah also noted that her daughter has since developed bruises on her legs, arms, and neck, and she is now hesitant to return to school. She expressed frustration that she hasn’t been able to speak directly with the teacher who notified police.

School officials released a statement emphasizing their commitment to student safety and internal handling of such concerns, stating, “Salem City School District’s top priorities are the safety, well-being, and academic success of every student.” They assured that all matters are addressed with care, thoroughness, and fairness, in compliance with legal procedures.

Authorities, including the Salem County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, are currently investigating the incident. The employment status of the aide involved remains unclear at this time.