A daycare classroom at The Chiles Academy in Daytona Beach has been thrust into the spotlight after a teacher was fired and hit with a child abuse charge tied to an alleged on-campus incident, according to school officials and police. Daytona Beach police arrested 21-year-old LaToya George on Sunday, then released her later that day on a $25,000 bond. School leaders say they notified the families directly affected and are offering support while working with investigators.
Details From Authorities
According to FOX 35 Orlando, officers were called to The Chiles Academy campus last week, where they arrested George on suspicion of child abuse. Police have not publicly disclosed what allegedly happened or the age of the child involved, and the department has declined to elaborate, citing an active investigation. The outlet reported that George was released from jail on a $25,000 bond.
School Response
In a statement on its website, The Chiles Academy said it "immediately terminated the individual's employment and notified the appropriate authorities" after learning of the allegation. The school added that it continues to support directly impacted families and is cooperating with the Florida Department of Children and Families and local law enforcement as they continue their work. The academy directed families and community members to its formal online statement for additional information.
What Comes Next
The Florida Department of Children and Families, which oversees reports of suspected child abuse and coordinates protective services statewide, operates a hotline and provides guidance for those who have concerns. The Florida Department of Children and Families site explains how to file a report and where families can turn for support. Daytona Beach police say their investigation into the child abuse charge, as initially reported by FOX 35 Orlando, remains active, and they have not released any further information.
Local Context
The case lands in a year when Volusia County families have seen other staff-related school investigations. In February, a Seabreeze High School paraprofessional was arrested in a separate case that police said involved rough handling of a student, as detailed by Observer Local News. For now, The Chiles Academy and Daytona Beach police are urging patience from the community while this latest investigation plays out.
