“I Endure Assault, Being Kicked, and Spat On.”

I am a Grade 1 teacher with 20 students.  One of my students has extreme behavioural issues.  I’ve had to endure assault, be kicked and spat on.  This student threw chairs towards the other students, terrorizing other students in my class.  I have no supports other than calling the office for help.  Even with a supporter administrator, there are no supports coming from the Board.  I’m on the verge of a nervous breakdown.  Why am I expected to go to work afraid for my safety or my students’ safety?  It’s only been the first month of school and I’m already going to therapy as it’s impacting my personal and professional life.  I am all for inclusion but we need proper supports in the classroom if we want to build inclusive classrooms. 

– Elementary Teachers of Toronto Member