Parents advocate for better student safety measures in schools.
A teacher at DeRenne Middle School in Savannah has resigned after a shocking incident where he threw an 11-year-old student across the classroom, causing injuries. The student’s mother has raised concerns about previous inappropriate behavior by the teacher. The school district is investigating the incident and calls for improved safety measures are growing.
In an unsettling turn of events, the city of Savannah has found itself in the news for a troubling incident that took place at DeRenne Middle School on December 6, 2024. This situation has raised serious questions about student safety and the behavior of those entrusted with educating our children.
The incident centers around a teacher named BeTreylin Elder, who is not just a staff member at the school but also serves as an assistant football coach. It all unraveled during what should have been a routine day in the classroom when Elder was recorded throwing an 11-year-old student, identified as TJ, across the room. The footage shows poor TJ landing hard on desks, leading to significant injuries.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, TJ’s mother, Che’Nelle Russell, has come forward to reveal that this was not an isolated incident. She recounted previous inappropriate comments made by Elder regarding her and her son, which had deeply upset them. The remarks that raised eyebrows included suggestive comments about personal matters that no teacher should address, sparking anger and concern from Russell.
The aftermath of this event has left a young boy with serious consequences. Reports indicate that TJ suffered a concussion, multiple bruises, and is now filled with anxiety about returning to school. Witness accounts from an assistant principal who saw the shocking event unfold confirm not only the act of throwing but also Elder’s behavior after, which included shoving TJ out of the classroom.
In light of the incident, quick action was taken by Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS). Elder was reassigned to an alternate location promptly to prevent further interactions with students. However, this did not end there; over the weekend, Elder submitted his resignation, which was swiftly accepted by the district’s human resources department.
The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System has assured the public that the incident is being taken seriously and is currently under investigation by the Chatham County Board of Education Police Department. They are committed to ensuring that student safety is always the top priority and have emphasized that this incident is viewed as isolated.
Amidst the fallout, Russell is advocating for changes within the school district, suggesting the need for more thorough training and better vetting processes for educators. Her concerns stem from the emotional and psychological impact this incident could have on her son in the long run. It’s a feeling of betrayal that she shared, underscoring the necessity for accountability within the school system.
As it stands, there have been no legal filings against Elder, nor have any arrest records been made available to the public. The teacher has refrained from making any public statements concerning the incident, mentioning that he will consult with his attorney before addressing the situation further.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the environment students are in daily. Parents and community members are understandably worried and are calling for more transparency and action regarding how incidents like these are handled. It’s a wake-up call for Savannah, reminding everyone that requiring positive and respectful behavior in schools is crucial for fostering a safe learning environment.
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