Parkland High School student faces misdemeanor charges for assaulting a teacher

A video of a Parkland High School student hitting a teacher has been circulating on social media this week.

The recording prompted an investigation between Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools and the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. 

On Tuesday, the juvenile was charged with one count of Communicating Threats and two counts of Misdemeanor Assault. 

Parkland Principal Noel Keener sent a message to families regarding the incident yesterday, saying the student would face disciplinary action in accordance with district policies. She also said the video is not reflective of her expectations for Parkland students.

In a statement, Superintendent Tricia McManus said the behavior would not be tolerated.

"At no time is it acceptable for students to put their hands on a teacher in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools," McManus said. "My focus now is on making sure that our teacher is taken care of and has the support needed to navigate through the lasting effects of this incident.”

The sheriff’s office says no further information can be shared at this time due to the student’s status as a juvenile.

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.