Classroom assistant on leave after accusation - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

A classroom assistant at a northside elementary school has been placed on leave after a parent accused the staffer of inappropriately touching a child.

MSD Washington Township Schools spokeswoman Nora Hiatt says the classroom assistant at Greenbriar Elementary School is on leave pending the outcome of an investigation.

On Thursday, the school district offered the following statement:

"A classroom assistant at Greenbriar Elementary School has been placed on leave pending an investigation into an allegation of inappropriate contact.

The suspension comes in response to concerns by the parent of a student that there had been inappropriate touching by a staff member of some male students.

Immediately upon receiving the complaint, Washington Township administrators called Marion County Child Protective Services. A formal inquiry by experienced CPS investigators began Saturday, February 13.

Part of the investigation will include interviews with children who may have been in contact with the staff member. Parents of those students have been informed of the situation, via a letter hand-delivered over the weekend. They will be permitted to be present for the interview of their child. Greenbriar Elementary is cooperating fully with the investigation being conducted by the proper authorities.

Washington Township's first concern is the safety and well-being of all students. At the same time, it is important to protect the legal rights of District employees. For that reason, no further statements regarding this personnel matter will be issued."