An 80-year-old former school worker has been arrested in Florida after allegedly striking a nine-year-old girl on the back of the head at Deltona Lakes Elementary School.
Maria Graham was accused of hitting the child during the school’s after-care programme on 17 September, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. She was arrested on a charge of child abuse on 21 September and later released on bond.
The incident took place shortly after 3pm in the school cafeteria, where Graham worked in the Extended Day Enrichment Programme. The child’s parents were told about the alleged assault when they collected her at around 5pm, the sheriff’s office said.
Her parents then contacted the school, which reviewed security footage before notifying law enforcement. Investigators said the video showed Graham following the girl from the kitchen into the cafeteria and striking the back of her head with an open hand.
The footage reportedly showed the impact causing the child’s head to move forward. Deputies said the girl was frightened by what happened and subsequently did not want to return to school.
Former school worker denies intentionally striking child
Graham told deputies she had been dealing with the girl after accusing her of trying to skip the food queue and pushing another pupil. She also said the child had shrugged when warned that she might be sent to the back of the line.
According to the sheriff’s report, Graham said she had intended to bring the girl to the front of the cafeteria and raised her hand during the exchange. She said she did not recall deliberately hitting the child, but acknowledged she might have touched her head lightly.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office said Graham admitted to the battery during its investigation. She was taken to the Volusia County Branch Jail after her arrest.
A judge has since ordered Graham not to have contact with the child, according to local reports.
Volusia County Schools confirmed that Graham resigned from her position on 18 September, the day after the alleged incident.
“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” a district spokesperson said.
