A shocking incident from Underwood School in Minnesota has led to serious charges against a 48-year-old teacher, who allegedly stood on a 6th-grade student’s back during a school safety drill. The teacher, identified as Jason Rogers, weighs approximately 350 pounds and has been charged with child punishment.
What Happened During the Drill?
According to court documents, the student had chosen to lie on his stomach instead of sitting down during the drill. Rogers reportedly told the students that if they remained in that position, he “could step on them.”
The teacher then allegedly stepped onto the student’s lower back and placed his full weight on him for around 10 seconds.
The student later told police he cried out in pain and didn’t understand why the teacher did it, as he hadn’t heard any warning.
“He just stepped on me like I was a stepping stool,” the boy said.
Student Left in Pain, Family Seeks Help
The boy’s mother said her son was in so much pain, he was walking “like an 80-year-old.” She took him to the hospital, where doctors treated him for back injuries.
According to the complaint, other students saw the incident and were terrified, fearing the teacher had broken the child’s back.
Teacher Admits His Actions
When questioned by police, Rogers admitted to stepping on the boy and two other students. He said he did it because he believed the children weren’t taking the safety drill seriously.
He told police that after the student said “ouch,” he asked if he was OK. However, that did not stop him from being charged with malicious punishment of a child, a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law.
School District Responds
A spokesperson for the Underwood Public Schools District confirmed that Jason Rogers has been placed on paid administrative leave while the incident is under investigation.