Physical education teacher allegedly assaulted student
Karen Smith allegedly assaulted a student who did not stand for the Pledge of Allegiance
A Colorado physical education teacher has been placed on paid administrative leave after allegedly assaulting a student who refused to stand for the National Anthem.
Karen Smith, the PE teacher at Angevine Middle School in Lafayette, was placed on leave following the alleged incident on Thursday, CBS Local reports.
Police were called to the school around noon on Thursday.
The school's principal sent a letter to parents that reads: 'Dear Angevine Middle School Families,
'I hope everyone is having a good evening.
'I am reaching out to you tonight to let you know that we will have a substitute teacher working with some of our PE classes for the time being.
'While I cannot share much information, following an incident today at school, Ms. Smith was placed on paid administrative leave. We are working closely with our partners at the Lafayette Police Department. We believe in due process and therefore ask that everyone respect Ms. Smith’s privacy at this time.
'We are dedicated, as always, to supporting our students and ensuring that we have qualified educators working with them during their physical education time.
'Thank you for your patience and support. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.'
Smith has been placed on administrative leave by Angevine Middle School in Lafayette, Colorado. No charges have been filed
Smith had been teaching in the Boulder Valley School District for 20 years, the Denver Post reports.
No charges have been filed in relation to the incident.