Ohio Teacher arrested after allegedly punching student during gym class. (Photo by wtap)
A high school teacher in Ohio has been arrested on assault charges after allegedly punching a student in the jaw and attempting to hit a second student during gym class. The incident has sparked concern among parents and school officials while authorities investigate the claims.
Matthew Warden, 55, a physical education and health teacher at Waterford High School, was taken into custody on Thursday, May 7, according to online records from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Warden faces two counts of assault. He was released the following day on his own recognizance, while the legal process continues.
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According to a criminal affidavit viewed by Western Mass News 6, deputies responded to the school on Wednesday, May 6, after receiving a report that a teacher had struck a student on school grounds. The document alleges that Warden became angry during class and had two students sit on either side of him. He reportedly told the students they were “pissing him off” and instructed them to “stick out their chins.”
The affidavit states that Warden then allegedly struck one student with a closed fist, reportedly leaving a red mark and causing pain that lasted the rest of the day. He also allegedly attempted to punch the second student, though he did not reportedly make contact. Warden reportedly acknowledged the incident but described his actions as “only joking around with the two students.
The circumstances leading up to the alleged assault remain unclear. School officials are investigating the events, but the Wolf Creek Local School District has not confirmed whether Warden remains employed at Waterford High School amid the ongoing review. Superintendent Suellen Coleman stated that the investigation is active and that the district is taking the claims seriously.
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Assault in Ohio is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. Convictions carry a maximum sentence of 180 days in jail and a potential fine of up to $1,000. Authorities have not indicated whether Warden has entered a plea. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the case.
The allegations have raised broader questions about classroom safety and teacher conduct. Experts note that incidents involving physical altercations between staff and students are rare but can have lasting emotional and psychological effects on young people. Parents and school officials are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of proper oversight and intervention when conflicts arise in the classroom.
This case underscores the legal and ethical responsibilities of educators, highlighting the consequences of actions that could be interpreted as violent or abusive toward students. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further updates on the charges and any potential disciplinary action by the school district.
