A Texas teacher has been accused of abusing a 5-year-old student during rest time at school.
Teacher and Charges
Rachel Kirspel, 37, who taught at the Marshall Early Childhood Center in Harrison County, is charged with one count of injury to a child.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to the criminal complaint, the incident occurred on May 14 in front of the student’s classmates and at least one other teacher. Kirspel allegedly:
- Hung the child upside down by her feet
- Swung the child side-to-side and up-and-down
- Dropped the child on her head, causing pain
- Called the child “ugly as hell” and insulted her family
A witness outside the classroom reported hearing the child scream and saw Kirspel swinging the student. The witness intervened, and Kirspel flipped the child right-side-up before leaving the room.
Teacher’s Statement
Kirspel told police the incident stemmed from the child being disruptive during rest time. She admitted trying to carry the child over her shoulder before hanging her upside down when she continued to cry. Kirspel claimed she left the room and subsequently quit her job.
Victim Account
The 5-year-old described to school administrators and a forensic specialist that Kirspel pulled her mat, flipped her over, grabbed her by the collar, lifted her by her feet, and swung her while cursing and calling her “ugly.” She said her head and arm hurt afterward.
School Response
Marshall Independent School District stated the student’s safety was immediately ensured. Kirspel was removed from the school, investigated, and terminated. The district’s police department referred the case to law enforcement.
Custody Status
Kirspel was booked into the Harrison County Jail on a $50,000 bond. She was no longer listed as an inmate as of Friday evening.
