WEST HEMPSTEAD, NY – Multiple families in the West Hempstead School District are stepping forward with allegations of physical abuse in a special education classroom, claiming the school was aware but failed to act. These concerns, centered on a second-grade classroom at Cornell Avenue Elementary School, have intensified since initial reports surfaced.
Parents have accused the school of allowing incidents where children were confined in dark closets until they screamed to be released. Other allegations include students being physically manhandled—grabbed by the collar, dragged to the ground, and struck with textbooks. These claims have been laid out in a notice of claim filed against the West Hempstead School District by attorney Nathan Workman, who represents five families with children in the class.
The allegations emerged one month after the district informed parents of an ongoing child abuse investigation. Workman described the situation as “sadistic and disturbing,” highlighting how parents noticed changes in their children’s behavior and reluctance to attend school. Despite raising concerns, parents felt dismissed, with the district allegedly suggesting the issues lay with the children themselves.
The school district has refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation, instead referring to a previous statement from Superintendent Daniel Rehman. The statement assured that the district is taking appropriate measures and has reported the claims to the relevant authorities.
The families involved are seeking $22 million in damages to avoid proceeding with a lawsuit. The case underscores the significant impact these allegations have had on the community and the need for thorough investigation and resolution.
As the legal process unfolds, the district’s response and any forthcoming actions will be closely scrutinized. The families and their legal representatives continue to push for accountability and justice, emphasizing the need for a safe educational environment for all students.
The situation remains tense, with parents demanding transparency and assurance that such incidents will not occur again. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the school district and its policies regarding the handling of abuse allegations.