Rhode Island Elementary School Worker Charged After Allegedly Biting Student Who Threw Paint In Class

Authorities in Rhode Island arrested a school’s behavior interventionist after they allegedly bit a student last week.

What happened: According to a report by WJAR, the incident occurred on September 5 at the Lillian Feinstein Elementary School on 159 Sackett Street. The school principal reportedly notified the Providence Police Department at around 2:15 PM.

• The principal told authorities about an incident between a student and behavior interventionist Yaritza Martinez. Per Songbird Care, behavior interventionists are also known as behavior therapists. They work with children to improve their interaction skills.
• WJAR cites officials who reportedly said the student went to the nurses’ room after an altercation with Martinez. The student allegedly threw paint across the room when the school worker refused to let him paint.
• It remains unclear what happened afterward, but an altercation allegedly occurred, in which Martinez is accused of biting the student. The outlet notes that the police chief described the incident as a “minor bite” which did not pierce the skin.
• Police reportedly said that the school waited until dismissal to notify the parents about the incident.

The School Principal Sent A Letter To Community Members Regarding The Incident

Simple assault: A report ABC6 reveals a letter sent out by the school principal, Maria Petrosinelli. It highlights two recent incidents at the Lillian Feinstein Elementary School and explains that Martinez was immediately placed on leave.

• The letter states that officials placed the school worker after she had left for the day, and she has not returned since. Authorities are reportedly charging her with simple assault or battery. “This was an isolated incident, and no other students were involved,” the letter reads.
• A report by GoLocalProv confirms that court records show Martinez’s arrest for simple assault. Her pre-trial is scheduled for November 7.
• Petrosinelli also mentions a separate “unrelated” incident in the letter. “Another report was received late yesterday regarding alleged unprofessional behavior by a different educator in a classroom setting,” the statement reads. “This individual was also placed on leave pending an internal investigation.”
• The principal explains that she is limited in what she can share, owing to investigations.