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Seattle Schools Investigation Finds Teacher Likely Harmed Multiple Special Education Students

James Sawyer
July 19, 2026
Seattle Schools Investigation Finds Teacher Likely Harmed Multiple Special Education Students
Seattle Schools Investigation Finds Teacher Likely Harmed Multiple Special Education Students Picture Credit: Unsplash

A Seattle Public Schools investigation has discovered a case of special education teacher at Rising Star Elementary School likely physically and emotionally harmed multiple students, according to findings released by the district.

The investigation concluded that the educator, who also serves as president of the Seattle Education Association, likely grabbed one student with enough force to leave bruises and threw a hardcover book that struck another child. Witnesses also reported repeated incidents of yelling, intimidation and aggressive behavior toward students in the classroom.

District investigators determined there was sufficient evidence to support several of the allegations after interviewing staff members and reviewing complaints. The report has been forwarded for personnel review, though Seattle Public Schools has not said whether the teacher remains employed or what disciplinary action may follow, citing ongoing employment procedures.

The family of one student with autism said the findings confirmed concerns they had raised for months after noticing changes in their son’s behavior. They have since shared the investigation with the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, although no criminal charges have been announced.

The case has renewed concerns about student safety in special education classrooms and how school districts respond to allegations of misconduct involving vulnerable students.

JS
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