Cedar Rapids teacher put on leave after assault allegations

CEDAR RAPIDS — A teacher at Johnson STEAM Academy is being investigated by Cedar Rapids police after two parents filed reports she assaulted their children.

One parent said her son was choked when the teacher grabbed him by his hooded sweatshirt on Monday. Another child was slapped in the face later that same day, another parent alleges.

The teacher has been placed on administrative leave during the investigation, according to officials with the Cedar Rapids Community School District.

The Gazette is not naming the teacher since no charges have been filed.

“I was so hurt. I feel like I should always be able to protect my son. Now he doesn’t want to go to school because he’s scared,” said Donisha Butler, whose 10-year-old son was choked.

Butler said school is supposed to be a “safe haven,” and people who “don’t love kids” shouldn’t be teachers. “Under no circumstances should you put your hands on other people’s kids,” she said.

Krystle Rivera also filed a police report Monday, saying the same teacher had slapped her 10-year-old daughter. She said the school is working with her and Butler to “make sure our kids feel comfortable.”

“My No. 1 job as a parent is to protect my child,” Rivera said. “I don’t want any child being abused where they’re supposed to grow and be nurtured.”

Rivera said she won’t be “truly satisfied” until the teacher is fired.

“I do not think someone who finds it OK to put their hands on two different children in the same day should be working with children,” Rivera said.

Both parents said they believe the incidents were racially motivated.

District officials said they are investigating the situation.

“Cedar Rapids Community School District is aware of the reported incidents and is thoroughly investigating the situation consistent with the law and our policies and procedures,” according to a district statement. “Being an active student and staff investigation, we cannot comment on the details. Student safety and well-being are the utmost priority as we continue building safe and secure learning environments for all.”

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