‘That Should Never Happen’: Virginia Preschool Assistant Fired After Tying Up Toddler
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A preschool teacher’s assistant at VINCI School Alexandria North has been fired after state inspectors say she tied a 21-month-old child to a chair with a blanket during lunch.
Incident Captured on Video
The Virginia Department of Social Services confirmed the incident occurred last month and was caught on surveillance video. According to inspectors, the assistant admitted to restraining the child for 22 minutes because the toddler had thrown food and moved tables.
She claimed the blanket was not tied tightly and insisted no harm was done.
School and Community Response
Dr. Dan Yan, Founding Principal of VINCI Schools, said the employee’s actions were a serious violation of school policy. “We are a very firm believer that the regulations and rules must be followed regardless of our feelings,” he stated.
The preschool emphasized that restraints are only permitted if a child is at risk of harming themselves or others.
Community members expressed outrage. “As a former teacher myself, that should never happen,” said Alexandria resident Acacia Komelasky.
No Charges Filed, Staff Retrained
While many parents described the assistant as a beloved four-year employee, the school said it had no choice but to terminate her. Social services confirmed another teacher was present during the incident but did not intervene; that teacher was formally written up and counseled.
VINCI Schools required staff to complete additional training and review its behavior management policy. “It sounds like they’re on top of it, and that’s a good thing,” said resident Michael Sedgley.
Child protective services ultimately decided not to pursue charges, citing a lack of malicious intent and no evidence the child was harmed.
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