Teaching in Turmoil: Reports of student violence against teachers continue to rise

Some educators say overwhelming challenges in the classroom have made their jobs nearly impossible. Our investigators take a closer look at possible solutions.
Published: Jan. 2, 2025 at 10:58 AM CST
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(InvestigateTV) — Great teachers motivate, inspire and lead their students. However, some educators are now saying overwhelming challenges in the classroom have made their job nearly impossible.

A teacher not only plans lessons and educates students, but they are also responsible for managing the classroom. This can make them a target for aggressive behavior from students.

Thousands of teachers surveyed say they have been victims of violence.

Our investigators asked three teachers about their personal experiences with violence in the classroom.

In Texas, an assistant principal is still recovering mentally and physically from the attack she suffered in August 2024.

“What happened to me should never happen to another educator,” Candra Rogers said.

“The hanger hit me in my right eye and knocked it out of the socket. I grabbed my face while blood was pouring out of my head and stumbled out of the classroom door.

Her injuries were so severe she had to be airlifted to a hospital where she underwent surgery on her eye.

While her story is tragic, it is not a new one. Violence against teachers is a growing problem.

Reporter Kristin Crowley takes a closer look at the issue and what can be done to fix it.