HAVERHILL, Mass. — A Haverhill school staff member was assaulted Tuesday while visiting a middle school student’s home to address an issue with their remote learning attendance, school officials said.
During the home visit, “an individual became agitated and assaulted a Consentino School staff member,” Haverhill Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Margaret Marotta told Boston 25 News in a statement Wednesday.
While Marotta did not disclose the victim’s name or position, a source identified the victim to Boston 25 News as the school’s assistant principal.
A colleague accompanying the victim called police, and the victim was evaluated for minor injuries and cleared to return to his duties later in the afternoon.
Haverhill’s school committee approved a hybrid model of learning for this academic year – a mix of both in-person and remote. But some students are learning at home only.
The student whom school staff were visiting is enrolled in Haverhill’s Remote Learning Academy – a fully remote option available to families who choose to learn from home with instruction from Haverhill teachers.
Marotta said Tuesday’s incident underscores the importance of in-person learning.
“This extremely concerning event highlights the need for our students to be in school where we are able to provide the necessary services and supports for our students,” Marotta said.
Consentino Middle School Principal Richard Poor told Boston 25 News by email Wednesday, “the actions of our staff members during yesterday’s incident highlights their dedication, attention to detail, and responsiveness to crisis.”
It remains unclear who committed the assault – whether it was a minor or a family member – and if they are facing charges.
Haverhill police did not respond to Boston 25 News’s requests for information.
The Department of Children and Families confirmed to Boston 25 News they received a report on the incident and are investigating.
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