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In a recent investigation, it was revealed that educators in Bexar County reported being injured by students over 2,600 times in just one school year. This shocking number raises serious concerns about the safety of teachers and support staff in classrooms.
What Sparked the Investigation?
The investigation was prompted by the tragic death of Alfred “Mr. Fred” Jimenez, an instructional assistant at Brandeis High School. In 2024, he suffered a fatal head injury after being pushed by a student with intellectual disabilities. His death shocked the community and raised urgent questions about how schools protect their staff.
The Reality of Classroom Danger
Through extensive report reviews and interviews with educators, it became clear that injuries in schools can range widely. Teachers and paraprofessionals have faced everything from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries such as concussions and broken bones. Some have even been left unable to return to their jobs due to the severity of their injuries.
Concerns About Safety
Nearly 60 responses from teachers, support staff, and parents highlighted a common concern: safety in classrooms. Many educators shared their personal experiences, including photos of injuries and the aftermath of violent incidents in their classrooms. The emotional and physical toll of these experiences is profound, leading many to question the measures in place to ensure their safety.
We Want to Hear Your Story
If you are an educator who has experienced violence in the classroom, or if you are a parent of a student who has injured a teacher, your story matters. Sharing your experiences can help shed light on this important issue. You can contribute by filling out this form or by reaching out via email to Daniela at dibarra@ksat.com.
Daniela is currently an IRE 2025 Chauncey Bailey Investigative Reporting Fellow, and this investigation is part of her yearlong project focused on the injuries teachers face at the hands of students.
