Memphis, September 16, 2025
News Summary
A mother has accused her daughter’s algebra teacher at Ridgeway High School in Memphis of assaulting her during a dispute over a cell phone. The incident occurred in the context of Tennessee’s new statewide cell phone ban for students. A video of the altercation has surfaced, raising concerns about student safety and the adherence to school policies. The school district has referred the teacher to the Department of Children’s Services for investigation, as the student expresses fear about returning to school.
Memphis Teacher Under Investigation After Alleged Assault of Student Over Cell Phone in Classroom
A Memphis mother has alleged that her daughter’s algebra teacher assaulted her at Ridgeway High School during a dispute over a cell phone in class. The incident reportedly took place amidst the implementation of Tennessee’s new statewide cell phone ban for students. A video capturing the altercation shows a physical struggle between the ninth-grade student and her teacher.
The mother, who has been identified as Gwendolyn Williams, has expressed deep concerns regarding her child’s safety following the teacher’s actions. Williams criticized the teacher for escalating the situation to physical confrontation, arguing that the teacher should have contacted law enforcement or the child’s parents instead of engaging in violence.
According to the policies set by Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), educators are prohibited from physically retrieving cell phones from students. The appropriate procedure requires teachers to either request the surrender of the device or contact an administrator for assistance. This incident has raised questions about adherence to school protocol and the safety of students in the classroom.
The school district confirmed that the teacher in question has been referred to the Department of Children’s Services and the Office of Professional Standards for further investigation into the matter. In light of the incident, Williams stated that her daughter now feels fearful about returning to Ridgeway High School and is advocating for enhanced protective measures for students.
As part of its ongoing investigation, MSCS aims to evaluate the conduct of the teacher and ensure adherence to existing policies. This incident reflects the broader discourse surrounding student safety and the management of classroom disruptions particularly in the wake of new disciplinary measures regarding electronic devices.
Background on Cell Phone Policies in Schools
The debate over cell phone use in schools has intensified, especially with the introduction of the statewide ban designed to minimize distractions and promote a conducive learning environment. Various educational institutions have adopted similar regulations, aiming to foster discipline and focus among students. However, these policies have also sparked discussions about the proper methods for enforcing them and the implications for teacher-student relations.
Williams’s account of the altercation underscores the importance of handling disciplinary situations with care and respect for student rights. Such incidents can lead to significant emotional distress for students and raise concerns about the potential for escalation in school discipline measures.
Investigative Actions by MSCS
The consequences of this incident will likely extend beyond the teacher involved. The outcome of the investigation may prompt a reevaluation of policy enforcement and training for educators on managing classroom behavior without resorting to physical confrontation. MSCS is committed to maintaining a safe environment for students and ensuring that teachers follow the appropriate protocols when addressing behavioral issues in their classrooms.
FAQ Section
- What happened at Ridgeway High School?
A mother alleges her daughter’s algebra teacher physically assaulted her due to a dispute over a cell phone during class.
- What does MSCS policy state regarding cell phone retrieval?
MSCS policy prohibits teachers from physically taking phones and instructs them to ask for surrender or to contact an administrator.
- What will happen next in the investigation?
The teacher has been referred to the Department of Children’s Services and the Office of Professional Standards for investigation by MSCS.
- How has the incident affected the student involved?
The student reportedly feels fearful of returning to school following the incident.
- What are the broader implications of the incident?
The incident raises questions about student safety and the enforcement of disciplinary measures regarding cell phones in schools.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Alleged assault over a cell phone in class |
| Location | Ridgeway High School, Memphis |
| Involved Parties | Ninth-grade student and algebra teacher |
| Parent’s Reaction | Concern for child’s safety and criticism of teacher’s method |
| MSCS Policy | Prohibits physical retrieval of phones by teachers |
| Actions Taken | Investigation by MSCS and referral to authorities |
| Student’s Current Feelings | Fearful about returning to school |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
19-Year-Old Charged with Aggravated Assault in Memphis
Significant Title IX Violations Uncovered in Memphis Schools
Former Teacher Found Guilty of Sexual Battery
Memphis Man Arrested for Aggravated Statutory Rape
Memphis Shooting Incident Outside True Love Church
Memphis Man Arrested for Producing Child Sexual Abuse Videos
Legal Dispute Raises Governance Concerns in Memphis Schools
Memphis Woman Charged With Aggravated Assault After Shooting
Former Teacher Convicted of Aggravated Sexual Battery in Memphis
Former MSCS Employee Convicted of Sexual Battery
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Student-Teacher Altercation
- My Suncoast: Student-Teacher Physical Altercation
- Charlotte Observer: National News
- Wikipedia: Student Discipline
- Google Search: Cell Phone Policies in Schools
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
