On Tuesday morning, three teaching assistants faced charges of misdemeanor assault against vulnerable individuals in connection with an event in 2023 concerning an 11-year-old pupil at Gayle Sloan Middle School located in Mandeville.
According to family members, Alexander Ferris, who is blind and autistic, also deals with developmental difficulties. It is alleged that he was subjected to violence at school, including being kicked, hit with a walkie-talkie, and having his head forced down onto a cafeteria table.
Subscribe to our NewslettersCurrently, Tiffany Bourgeous, Leslie Cookmeyer, and Angela Rayer find themselves at the heart of a case that has shocked the special education sector on the Northshore.
Whenever you take care of a child—regardless of whether they are neurodivergent or neurotypical—it’s your duty to safeguard them," stated Stephanie Bailey, a local paraprofessional. "The parents place their trust in us.
However, the defense presents a markedly distinct scenario. Roy Burns, the attorney representing Bourgeous and Cookmeyer, stated that the paraeducators were merely attempting to handle complex behaviors within an exceedingly tough setting.
These individuals work with children who can be highly aggressive at times, are quite large, and often act without understanding the consequences," Burns explained. "As part of their job, they sometimes need to physically restrain these kids.
However, Bailey contends that there are more effective methods to handle the situation.
Step out and get some fresh air, call it a day—if necessary, do anything you individually need to do to break free from that scenario," she stated. "There’s truly no justification for resorting to physical violence against others.
The trio of women will return to court on July 7 for their trial.
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READ THE FULL STORY: Three Aides Charged with Attacking Handicapped Student Appear in St. Tammany Parish Court
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