EUSTIS, FL – A Eustis, Florida middle school teacher’s assistant has been taken into custody following an incident where she allegedly struck a student in the face during class time. The occurrence, captured on the school’s surveillance system, has led to a felony charge of child abuse without significant harm against the education professional.

The 61-year-old staff member, identified as Ute Galloway, was arrested by local authorities on November 29 and later released on bond as per the county jail records. The charge was precipitated by an event on November 17, where Galloway purportedly became agitated with a 14-year-old student over a drawing task. The student was participating in a drawing game alongside peers and used an outline to sketch a turkey, reportedly against Galloway’s instructions. As the student persisted, Galloway is accused of smacking him across the face, based on the police report.

Following the event, Galloway is said to have apologized to the pupil. The Lake County School District initially addressed the student’s parents, declaring they would manage the incident internally and provide follow-up information. Nonetheless, when classes resumed after Thanksgiving, Galloway continued her role at the school without an update being given to the concerned parents. This delay in response led the parents to seek assistance from the police, culminating in charges against the assistant.

The district responded to the arrest by reassigning Galloway to a position without student contact during the investigation, as per their usual protocol. The next court appearance for Galloway is slated for December 27. There has been no indication whether she has plead or secured legal representation for her defense.

This altercation has ignited discussion on the use of physical discipline within educational settings, raising concerns about the policies and protective measures that schools should have in place. The case has also raised questions regarding the timeliness and transparency of school responses to parental concerns following incidents of possible mistreatment in schools.

This is a developing story and more details may emerge as the legal process unfolds and the school district continues its investigation.