A school employee has been charged for allegedly hitting a 6-year-old boy with autism, prompting the boy’s mother to speak out about the incident. Kimberley Horen is facing battery and assault charges in connection with the incident, which could result in a sentence of up to 93 days in jail if convicted. The boy’s mother, Tabatha Woodward, revealed that her son, Ryder Sobieski, has been deeply impacted by the alleged assault.
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Woodward received a call from the principal of Forest Park Elementary School in Michigan informing her of the incident involving her son and a school worker. Shocked by the news, she expressed her distress over the situation, particularly because her son is non-verbal. The paraprofessional involved, identified as Kimberley Horen by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, is accused of removing the boy’s shoe and hitting him on the head with it deliberately.
The incident reportedly occurred in October 2024, leading to Horen being placed on leave and subsequently terminated from her position after an internal investigation. The Eastpointe Community School District, responsible for overseeing the school, emphasized that such behaviour is unacceptable and not tolerated within their educational setting. They stated, “We have high expectations of our employees, and we absolutely do not accept or tolerate that kind of behavior in Eastpointe Community Schools.”
In response to the incident, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido condemned Horen’s actions, highlighting her breach of trust and failure to provide a safe environment for students. Woodward expressed her disappointment that Horen was not charged with child abuse, as she believes her son has been profoundly affected by the incident and is struggling to cope. She described behavioural changes in her son, such as throwing himself on the floor and finding it challenging to interact with his siblings.
The mother’s voice, calling for accountability and justice, echoes a broader societal concern for the safety and wellbeing of children in educational settings. As the case unfolds, there is a growing emphasis on ensuring that incidents of misconduct, particularly those involving vulnerable children like Ryder, are met with appropriate consequences. The outrage and empathy generated by this story serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting and advocating for individuals with special needs.
Despite the trauma endured by Ryder and his family, the courage to speak out against such injustices reflects a resilience and determination to seek justice. The legal proceedings and public response to this case will undoubtedly shape the discourse around child safety and the accountability of those entrusted with the care of vulnerable individuals. As the investigation continues, the voices of advocates and supporters stand united in demanding a fair and just outcome for Ryder and all children who may have experienced similar harm.
In a society that values the protection of its most vulnerable members, incidents like these serve as sobering reminders of the responsibility we all share in safeguarding the rights and dignity of every individual, especially children with special needs. The call for justice in this case resonates not only with the affected family but also with a community that is determined to advocate for the safety and wellbeing of all children.