High school teacher knocked unconscious after female student hurls metal chair at her head in Flint, Michigan: source

A source familiar with the situation told The Post Millennial on Friday morning that the teacher was knocked unconscious and remains in the hospital. By Friday evening, the schools superintendent reported that she had been released, and would return to work. "I want to emphasize that the scholar involved in this incident will be held accountable according to the law and in accordance with the Flint Community Schools Student Code of Conduct," a letter issued from the superintendent of schools on Friday afternoon read.

"The Flint Police Department has made an arrest related to an assault at Flint Southwestern Academy. An investigation is ongoing," said Flint Police Detective Tyrone Booth in a statement.

The female students screamed at each other prior to one of them lifting a metal classroom chair and hurling it at the other, striking the teacher on the left side of her head. She instantly crumbled to the floor, whereupon the two female students begin to physically fight each other. The video does not show the aftermath of the fight, nor if any students came to the teacher's aid.

The incident took place at Southewestern Classical Academy, one of the Flint Community Schools. Superintendent Kevelin Jones issued a letter on September 28 to school families to inform them of the incident. "We are writing to inform you about a recent incident that occurred at Southwestern Classical Academy concerning a physical altercation between two scholars.

"This unfortunate incident resulted in a staff member sustaining an injury."

Jones goes on to emphasize how seriously Flint Community Schools takes "the safety and well-being of both scholars and staff," saying that they "are fully committed to addressing it in a manner that adhered to the law and aligns with the policies of our district."

An investigation was launched by Jones, who says that the "goal is to maintain fairness and justice throughout the process." Jones also says that the school district is "committed to providing the necessary support and resources" to help "scholars and staff" "cope with any emotional or psychological effects stemming from this incident."

On Friday afternoon, Jones sent out a second letter with an update on the situation. "I am relieved to report that the teacher involved in this incident is doing well and was released from the hospital the same day," Jones wrote. "The resilience and dedication displayed by this educator are truly commendable. Furthermore, I am heartened to inform you that the teacher has chosen to return to work. This decision reflects the profound commitment our educators have to their mission of educating and supporting our scholars."

"Many of them have taken the initiative to create cards with well-wishes and messages of support for the teacher. This outpouring of care and concern highlights the positive and nurturing environment we aim to cultivate within our school community. Additionally, we understand that the aftermath of such an incident can be emotionally challenging for both scholars and staff. To aid in the healing process, our district has implemented restorative practices, including counseling and supportive services. These resources are designed to provide the necessary emotional and psychological support to those affected by this incident. We believe that by coming together as a community and addressing these challenges openly, we can heal and grow stronger," she said.

"On the day of the teacher's return, scholars and staff will be present to extend their warm welcome. They consider this teacher a hero, and we share in their sentiment. It is through the unity and resilience of our community that we can move forward, stronger and more determined to create a safe and supportive environment for all."

Flint has experienced a water crisis for several decades, leaving residents unable to drink the water as it is contaminated with lead. Flint recieved federal Covid relief in the amount of $155 million. There are approximately 3,000 students in Flint.

Genessee County Sheriff Chris Swanson told 12 News in September that his office had responded to multiple threats at schools. A first grader threatened a resource officer, saying that they would take the officer's gun and shoot the officer with it.

A 15-year-old was suspended after posting a selfie on Instragram with an AK-47, which Swanson said had been "secured." A 5th grader threatened to shoot another student, saying they would find out where the student lived. Swanson said that parents were notified of these threats and that he'd visited the students' homes.

This article has been updated to reflect the latest information in the case as of Friday afternoon, September 29.