New Jersey School Aide Dismissed After Alleged Discipline Incident Involving Nonverbal Student
A New Jersey lady is demanding responsibility after learning that her six-year-old nonverbal son may have suffered improper elementary school discipline. A teacher’s aide was accused of punishing vulnerable children with hot sauce, prompting concerns about student safety, special education monitoring, and school district policies.
Paterson mother of two autistic kids Quasheema Frye stated that her younger son Lamond attends Dale Avenue Elementary School, where the incident occurred. Frye’s nonverbal son attends special education. Ten students are taught by a teacher and assistants.
Frye learned about the incident in December after another school employee complained on social media that a teaching aide punished students with hot sauce. The message worried Frye, who contacted school administration to see if her child was involved. Later, the principal suggested Lamond was influenced.
A Dale Avenue Elementary School assistant was accused, and Paterson Public Schools moved immediately. A district official said the employee was fired and an internal investigation was started immediately per process. The aide’s name and charge were not confirmed by the district, but administrators reiterated their commitment to student safety and said they could not disclose additional details due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Frye and her lawyer, Salaam Ismail, a prominent New Jersey public advocate and National United Youth Council director, are disturbed by the lack of public information. Ismail found the district’s response weak and disturbing. He stated child protection or prosecutors should swiftly intervene in cases involving suspected child damage, especially impaired ones.
Ismail said foreign medications in children’s mouths, especially without parental consent, can be harmful. He noted that staff may not know kids have allergies or medical conditions, making such behaviors dangerous. He noted that nonverbal children are especially susceptible since they cannot communicate themselves.
Frye said her son has returned to school, but she worries about how the issue was handled and whether adequate measures are taken to prevent future tragedies. She and Ismail will meet with the district administrator to learn who was involved, the aide’s qualifications, and why parents weren’t informed.
The case has highlighted questions regarding special needs aide supervision and misbehavior accusations in schools. Advocates say transparency and swift action are crucial for children who depend on adults for care, communication, and protection.
As the investigation continues, Frye says she is safeguarding her kid and fighting for stronger oversight to prevent similar treatment. The incident emphasizes schools’ greater responsibilities for impaired students and family-school trust.
Sources
Paterson Public Schools
New Jersey Department of Education
