A Jacksonville mother says one after-school conversation with her 10-year-old son was enough to send her straight into alarm mode. Her son told her that a P.E. coach at IDEA River Bluff touched a young girl’s chest, and that he came home “a little traumatized” after what he witnessed. IDEA Public Schools has confirmed that a staff member at the River Bluff campus is under investigation and is not allowed on campus while the probe plays out. The mother, who asked to be identified only as “Bella,” is now urging other parents to talk with their kids and push school leaders for clear answers.
School confirms investigation
In a statement to Action News Jax, IDEA Public Schools said, “The staff member is not allowed on campus pending the investigation. We are working in collaboration with law enforcement and taking appropriate actions in accordance with the law and network policy.” The network added that it cannot comment further because the matter is still under investigation. School officials told the station that any questions about the case should go to local law enforcement.
Parent says student was discouraged from reporting
Bella told Action News Jax that her son “came in a little traumatized” after reporting the incident last Thursday. According to her, when he tried to tell another teacher what he had seen, he was told to “shut up and not to say anything.” She said the situation “wasn’t right” and left her deeply worried about the safety of other children at the school. Bella is urging parents to ask very specific questions about their kids’ school day and any interactions with staff…