Video Captures Disturbing Restraint (Image Credits: Cwbchicago.com)
Chicago – Prosecutors charged a Chicago Public Schools teacher with aggravated battery following an alleged violent altercation with a 5-year-old student inside a Bronzeville elementary school classroom.[1]
Video Captures Disturbing Restraint
A teaching assistant pulled out her phone to record as Laundon Hubbert, 52, held the boy by the collar of his shirt. The child sat between her legs on the floor while she restrained him during the February 6 incident at Carter G. Woodson Elementary School. Hubbert had already pushed the boy from his chair twice earlier that morning. His head struck a chair on the second push. The assistant witnessed the entire escalation around 10:30 a.m.
Hubbert grabbed the boy’s paper and crayons first, stuffing them into a pouch on his chair. When he pushed her hands away, she shoved him to the floor. The assistant tried to console the child, but Hubbert pushed him again. She later remarked, “You want to push chairs. Now you don’t have a chair.”[1]
Witness Details the Full Sequence
The boy kicked Hubbert’s shoe in response, prompting her to threaten a kick back. She then picked him up by the hoodie collar and ripped off the garment, leaving him crying. Hubbert placed the hoodie on a nearby table out of his reach. The assistant observed multiple kicks, including one to the boy’s chest. She stepped away briefly to assist other students before returning to see the restraint captured on video.
- Hubbert confiscates paper and crayons.
- Boy pushes her hands; she shoves him to floor.
- Second push causes head to hit chair.
- Boy kicks shoe; hoodie removed and kicks follow.
- Video records final restraint phase.
Visible Injury Emerges Later
About an hour after the confrontation began, the assistant noticed a scratch on the side of the boy’s face. Prosecutors filed charges of aggravated battery to a child under 13 causing great bodily harm. The incident stemmed from a minor dispute over classroom materials. No further injuries received detailed mention in court filings. Hubbert’s actions escalated quickly, according to the witness statement.
Court records outline the physical contacts that formed the basis for the felony count. The case highlights tensions in early education settings. Authorities emphasized the vulnerability of young students.
District Responds Swiftly to Complaint
The teaching assistant filed a formal complaint with school officials after classes ended on February 6. Chicago Public Schools notified authorities several days later. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services launched an investigation. The Office of Student Protections and Title IX removed Hubbert pending review.
Principal T.N. Littlejohn sent a letter to parents detailing the allegation. “The safety of your children is always our top priority,” the letter stated. It confirmed no sexual misconduct and noted family notification. The principal invited questions via email or phone. CPS declined further comment due to ongoing litigation.[1]
Judge Allows Release Pending Trial
Hubbert appeared in court where prosecutors sought detention. Judge James Costello denied the request, allowing her release while the case proceeds. The ruling came amid scrutiny of school safety protocols. Families at Woodson Elementary received assurances of support for the affected student.
The incident raises broader questions about staff training and child protection in public schools.
Key Takeaways
- A 5-year-old suffered a facial scratch after multiple physical contacts.
- Charges carry severe penalties for harm to young children.
- CPS acted by removing the teacher and investigating promptly.
This case underscores the critical need for de-escalation in classrooms serving vulnerable students. Schools must balance discipline with safety. What steps should districts take to prevent such escalations? Share your thoughts in the comments.
