Florida Mother Sues School Board Over Special Needs Son Slapped by Employee

Lawsuit Filed Against Pasco County School Board

• 📌 A Pasco County mother has filed a lawsuit against the school board after being denied access to video footage of an incident involving her son.
• 💡 The mother, Gretchen Stewart, is seeking a jury trial to uncover what happened to her son, Ian, who has Down syndrome and autism.

Incident on School Bus

• 🚌 Records reveal a former bus assistant slapped Ian and used profanity after the child attempted to kiss the assistant's hand.
• 🚫 Stewart was initially denied access to the video, with the district citing risk management file protocols and a state statute.
• 🗣️ The school district's explanation stated Ian was attempting to kiss the bus aide's hand, a behavior consistent with his affectionate nature.

Previous Incidents and Training Concerns

• ⚠️ The lawsuit alleges the bus assistant had prior incidents involving physical contact with students, including one less than three months before the incident with Ian.
• 📚 New details in the lawsuit suggest the bus assistant lacked sufficient specialized training for working with special needs students and was not educated on Ian's specific behaviors.
• ⚖️ Despite an incident report detailing the slap, a deputy recommended the case be unfounded, stating there was no criminal intent, which the mother disputes.

Legal Allegations and District Response

• 📜 The lawsuit includes allegations of negligence, vicarious liability, and violation of the Florida Equity and Education Act.
• 🔒 Pasco County Schools stated that student safety is their priority and any allegations are reported to law enforcement.
• ❓ The district has not agreed to an interview, but the investigation into the matter continues.