Teacher taped student's mouth at Southern Wake Academy in Holly Springs, principal says

HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. (WTVD) -- A social studies teacher at Southern Wake Academy in Holly Springs is being disciplined after she put clear masking tape over a student's mouth, Principal David Thomas confirmed.

The teacher is still teaching at the tuition-free public charter school for children in grades 6-12. However, she is on probationary status under an action plan, according to Thomas.

Thomas said the incident happened about a month ago and the teacher indicated she was joking around. She said she had great rapport with her students but went too far.

The student's parents filed a report with the school. Thomas said the situation has been dealt with and that no other students have reported any similar incidents.

The administration of SWA was made aware of a situation that happened in a middle school classroom last month in regards to a teacher taping a student's mouth with masking tape. This was handled quickly and seriously by contacting parents and meeting with the teacher. Although inappropriate, the teacher's actions were not of a malicious intent. The teacher was placed on a disciplinary action plan for the remainder of the school year. The parents were contacted in regards to what disciplinary action took place and were extended an invitation weeks ago with dates and times to meet with both the teacher and administration. The student's parents have not requested any follow-up conversations or meetings with school personnel. No grievances were filed and no other instances have taken place --Principal David Thomas