On November 15, 2024, an incident at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School in Waldorf, Maryland, led to a student being hospitalized and has since sparked differing accounts from school officials and the student’s family.
According to Principal Carrie Burke, two students were “horseplaying” in a school bathroom when one student’s jacket became entangled on a stall door hook, rendering the student unable to free themselves. The other student attempted to assist but was unsuccessful and subsequently sought help from school staff. Administrators responded promptly, assisted the student, and called 911 for precautionary medical support. Principal Burke stated, “Due to privacy reasons, I am not able to share any additional details with you.”
The initial 911 report described a possible suicide attempt, which was shared on social media by a community member, causing concern among parents and the community. In response, Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) issued an update to dispel any inaccurate information. Principal Burke acknowledged the delay in communication, explaining that the administrative team was addressing the needs of the students involved. She commended the quick thinking of the student who reported the incident, the staff for managing the situation calmly, and the students for following directions to allow emergency medical services to provide care.
In contrast, the hospitalized student’s parent provided a differing account on social media, alleging that their second-grade child was “hung in the boys’ bathroom by a fourth grader.” The parent described receiving a distressing call from the school, stating that their child was being rushed to Children’s Hospital in Northwest Washington, D.C. Upon arrival, the parent found their child unconscious and surrounded by medical personnel. Expressing deep concern, the parent stated, “This is the most heartbreaking & traumatizing situation my family has ever been in.” They called for increased awareness among parents and students, emphasizing that “BULLYING is never ok.”
CCPS has acknowledged the social media posts and stated that the incident is under active investigation, with the school resource officer and police assisting school administrators. The school emphasized compliance with state and federal laws regarding the release of any information that would personally identify a student.
The incident has raised questions about student safety and the effectiveness of communication between school officials and parents. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further clarification on the events that transpired and the measures that will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Southern Maryland Chronicle will continue to follow this incident and will update the community as soon as more information becomes available.
Y’all are trying your best not to call this situation as it is. Straight bullying. And I hope the little child and mother gets the justice they rightfully deserved. I will not stop contacting the governor, leaving reviews, contacting other higher up officials until the principal Carrie Burke addresses her statement of a child being hung called ‘horseplaying’
And what verified information do you have that contradicts the schools initial investigation? Because as a journalist, I use only verified facts, not social media posts….