After a teacher was seen on camera getting punched in the face, members of the Baltimore community are coming together to show their support.
The incident happened earlier this week at Frederick Douglass High School and quickly went viral after it was posted on social media. In the video, the student is heard saying, "F*** is you talking about, don't f***ing get smart with me!" after the student punched the teacher.
Now, a local pastor is calling for the community to come out with gifts, cards, and flowers to rally behind that teacher and show their support. The rally will support what organizers are calling the most honorable professionals in the world -- teachers.
Supporters plan on showing up at the high school around 7:50 a.m. to let teachers and children know their community appreciates them and will stand for nothing less than a safe learning environment.
The Baltimore's Teacher Union also is speaking out about the matter, calling the video upsetting but not exactly surprising. The president of the union says that teachers are assaulted often in Baltimore City and she has been fighting for more support, however, support and resources for teachers are decreasing.
"I think it's terrible. It's a tragic situation and our teachers and our students need support," explained Marietta English the Baltimore Teacher's Union President.
Baltimore City school officials releasing a second statement on the matter Thursday night saying they are working closely with school leaders.
Baltimore City Public Schools leaders are working closely with the Frederick Douglass High School leadership team to support students and staff following Wednesday's altercation between a teacher and student. Our focus is on ensuring a safe teaching and learning environment for students and staff. We understand that an incident like this one can be difficult to process. School counselors and social workers will be available at the school for students and staff to address any questions and concerns they may have. District leaders have also reached out to the teacher to provide any additional support that may be needed.
The video has gone viral with growing numbers of over 800,000 views total on multiple platforms.
