A Raleigh County teacher's aide was charged with battery for allegedly smacking a student in the face.
WVVA and WVNS reported that Melinda Bennett, 50, allegedly slapped the student on Sept. 29 and was arrested on Oct. 9. They reported a teacher recorded the incident.
A secretary for Raleigh County schools sent a statement on behalf of Dave Price, superintendent, that says during a special meeting on Oct. 27, the Board of Education unanimously agreed with Price's recommendation "for the suspension and termination of Melinda Bennett from her position as an Aide at Daniels Elementary."
The statement also says Bennett has filed a Level 3 grievance appeal seeking re-instatement to her position.
Price did not return calls seeking further comment, so it is unclear whether Bennett is suspended or fired. The statement says that he would not provide further details "due to privacy concerns."
The investigating officer, who works for the school system; Prosecuting Attorney Kristen Keller; and Raleigh County Sheriff Steve Tanner also did not return calls.
Magistrate court officials confirmed that Bennett was charged with battery on Oct. 9. They said the case was assigned to Magistrate Charles Humphrey, and they said they could not send a copy of the criminal complaint until Humphrey returns next week.
Magistrate Gregory Tanner said Bennett is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 28.