NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Newport News police are investigating a reported assault by a substitute teacher in an elementary school.
Police say the parent of a Riverside Elementary student claims Sharod Smithen pushed her daughter's head down toward her desk during class on Wednesday.
Smithen was served with a warrant for misdemeanor assault. Meanwhile, Riverside Principal Katherine Jenn sent a message to families, saying she received several concerning reports about Smithen's behavior and notified the parents of the students involved. She added both the Human Resources Department and Child Protective Services were notified of the incident
Newport News Public Schools says Smithen is now banned from serving as a substitute teacher.
"I thank everyone who came forward with information. The safety and well-being of our students is my priority," Jenn said in her message to school families. "As always, I appreciate your partnership and support."