A former teacher’s aide at Greenville Middle School faces charges of injury to a child after allegedly abusing a non-verbal special needs student.
Lakenya Dwynette Harris, 53, was arrested on September 4 and booked into the Hunt County Jail with a $75,000 bond, according to police records. The charges stem from an incident where Harris allegedly struck a special education student, as captured on classroom surveillance video.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, a parent reported concerns after their child returned home with unexplained bruising and scratches. The non-verbal student, using sign language, indicated the involvement of a “teacher.”
Greenville ISD police reviewed classroom footage, which allegedly showed Harris “open-handed slapping” the child, cursing at him, and using forceful methods, including placing her knee in his back while attempting to lift him by his arms, wrists, and underarms.
Greenville ISD Superintendent Dr. Joe Lopez said the district launched an internal investigation upon receiving the complaint. The school notified Child Protective Services and the Greenville ISD Police Department, following reporting protocols.
Harris, who had been a special education paraprofessional for two years, resigned amid the investigation. The district reported her alleged misconduct to the State Board of Educator Certification for potential disciplinary action.
“Greenville ISD takes all misconduct seriously and remains committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for every student,” Lopez said in a statement, per CBS News Texas.
Lopez noted that privacy laws prevent the release of specific details but assured the community that the district acted promptly and in accordance with policies and laws.
Community members expressed outrage over the allegations. Kaitlyn Dickerson, whose sister attends the school, called the behavior “disgusting” and “gross,” emphasizing the betrayal felt by the victim’s family.
“They’re horrified. That’s their baby. They’re sending them to protect them, trusting them with their kid all day,” Dickerson said, per Fox 4 KDFW.
Dickerson also highlighted the vulnerability of non-verbal students, noting, “Some special education children can’t properly communicate that.”
Dickerson advocated for increased classroom surveillance, stating, “I don’t think there’s anything going on in a classroom that shouldn’t involve cameras.”
A parent of another special needs student acknowledged the challenges of the role but stressed accountability.
“If you’re not prepared, I would think you should walk away,” the parent said, urging the district to enhance oversight, Fox 4 reported.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released additional details about the incident or the victim’s condition.