Rutherford County is in the throes of community distress as Stewartsboro Elementary School teacher Emily Romine faces a suspension over charges including allegedly assaulting two students, a claim that has shaken parents and educators alike. According to WSMV, the Board of Education's decision to suspend Romine for 15 days came down Wednesday night amidst allegations of her physically interacting with students in a manner caught on surveillance - including pulling on a student, pushing them, and kicking their chair.
Reflecting a shaken community parent Amber Hodges, who attended the board meeting, articulated her disbelief and concern, asserting, "I think that’s terrifying to hear as a parent," and questioning the environment where children are supposed to be safe, yet are subjected to such alleged misconduct by an educator, Amber Hodges told WSMV. In addition to the physical misconduct charges, Romine is accused of professional misconduct for not monitoring students during lunch periods and being preoccupied with non-school-related activities on her laptop.
Further details provided by a district spokesperson to FOX17 confirm that the notice of charges report was issued to Romine on March 8, following the alleged January 30 incident. The board's vote implies that should charges be formalized, Romine will be officially suspended. Meanwhile, the embattled teacher is already on unpaid suspension as the investigation into these allegations continues to unfold in the local community.
Engulfed by the situation, parents and community members continue to express outrage and disbelief - with Hodges going on record to stress her position on the matter, "If I was in there, it would be termination, it would be termination, that is a child, an innocent child," Hodges said to WSMV. Despite the policies and safety measures rooted within educational systems, the allegations stand as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities children face, even in spaces designed for their nurture and growth.
