A Minnesota teacher is facing criminal charges after allegedly stepping on a sixth-grade student during a school lockdown drill. Jason Rogers, a teacher at Underwood School in Otter Tail County, reportedly admitted to stepping on multiple students while attempting to discipline them during the exercise.
According to court documents obtained by the Tri-City Herald, the incident occurred on February 10, when students were required to sit in designated areas as part of the drill.
Rogers, weighing 350 pounds, allegedly grew frustrated when some students lay on their stomachs instead of sitting up. He then told them he “could step on them” before reportedly standing on the back of one sixth grader for about 10 seconds.
The affected child allegedly began crying and later reported severe back pain. Witnesses stated that the entire class saw the incident unfold, with some fearing the teacher had broken the student’s back. The boy’s mother later took him to Lake Region Hospital, where he was evaluated for injuries.
Authorities say the student had to stay home from school for a week due to the pain. His mother described his condition, saying he “was walking around like an 80-year-old” because of his back injuries. Following the report, school officials placed Rogers on administrative leave while an investigation unfolded.
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Rogers has been charged with malicious punishment of a child and is currently under investigation. He reportedly expressed concern when he saw the student’s reaction but has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Law enforcement officials are continuing their review of the case. Meanwhile, the community remains shocked by the disturbing nature of the incident. Parents and school officials are now calling for stricter guidelines on handling student discipline during emergency drills.
School authorities have assured parents that they are taking the matter seriously and will implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
