A former “Teacher of the Year” at Conyers Middle School in Georgia, Melvin McClain, was taken into custody this month after he allegedly assaulted a 13‑year‑old student.
School officials say McClain had all of his students—except two—exit his classroom, then struck the boy more than 20 times in the head and chest while another classmate watched.
The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Department recorded the incident on video, and a school resource officer who also serves as a deputy filed a detailed report.
McClain was arrested at the Rockdale County Public School Board of Education building on December 2 and later released on bond after being charged with simple battery and three counts of cruelty to children.
When questioned by deputies, McClain claimed he frequently engages in “horseplay” with his students, a statement his attorney, Kianna Chennault, condemned as a dangerous excuse for battery.
The victim’s mother, Danielle Offett, watched the footage at the school and said she was shocked to see her son being struck; she is considering legal action, though it’s not clear whether she will target the school district or the teacher himself.
The district released a statement saying McClain has been barred from the classroom and is under investigation, noting that they only became aware of the event after receiving an email from a parent.
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