State investigates school over allegations director slammed child's head against wall

DOUGLASVILLE, Ga. — The state is investigating a local Montessori school over allegations regarding the discipline of a student.

A parent told Channel 2's Carl Willis this discipline has been too severe on multiple occasions.

Lanora Jackson told Willis her 5-year-old son was manhandled by the owner of International Academy in Douglasville.

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Now, a state agency is investigating multiple complaints of "inappropriate discipline" including an incident with Jackson's son.

"He told me that she took his chin and lifted it up very hard and just kept hitting his head into the wall," Jackson said.

According to the Department of Early Care and Learning, the investigation was opened last

Thursday. Investigators interviewed parents this week.

When Willis spoke with the owners Tuesday night, they denied the allegations. At first, they declined to comment, then asked for 24 hours to prepare a statement.

Channel 2 Action News gave them a day, but then they declined once again.

Jackson claims she's seen the questionable discipline first hand.

"I've actually seen her kick a little child into a corner," she said.

Jackson told Willis she had a great relationship with the owner until these reports surfaced.

She's removed her son from the school.

Cox Media Group