WASHINGTON, DC – In a distressing incident, two preschool teachers were assaulted on Monday while accompanying a group of infants and toddlers in northwest Washington, D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker revealed the incident on social media, stating that the teachers were from Petit Scholars school in D.C.’s Bloomingdale neighborhood. They were walking with three classes of children outside the school campus.
According to Parker, a man known in the community, who may be grappling with mental health issues, approached the teachers and asked for money. When the teachers declined, the man reportedly attacked them. One of the teachers was injured and transported to a nearby hospital. Another teacher who tried to intervene was also injured but did not require hospitalization. Parker mentioned that bystanders came to their aid.
The suspect in the attack has been arrested, and Parker’s office is exploring support services for him. He has been in contact with the school and the DC Department of Behavioral Health Director Barbara Bazron, and local schools have been informed of the incident.
Councilmember Parker has reached out to D.C. police to request an escort for Petit Scholars groups during their daily walks and trips to the playground. He expressed deep concern about the psychological impact on the children who witnessed their teachers being attacked.
This incident occurred on the same day that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser unveiled a new anti-crime initiative called the ACT Now plan. The plan aims to address organized retail theft, open-air drug markets, and the wearing of masks in public spaces. D.C. police data indicates a 41% increase in violent crime in the district compared to the same period last year.