Student accused of choking assistant principal

CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. — The president of a local teacher's union says a student accused of choking an assistant principal should not be allowed back in that school.

"We really need a zero tolerance, I would think, towards that sort of thing," said Sid Chapman of the Clayton County Education Association.

Chapman says he's heard of too many incidents where an educator has been attacked.

"Yes, there are a lot of physical instances. And it's on all levels. And it's nothing new. It's been going on awhile," Chapman said.

The latest incident has left Deangelo Whitlock, 17, facing teacher abuse charges.

School police say Assistant Principal C. Michael Houze says Whitlock turned on him as he attempted to break up a fight Whitlock and Mardochee Michel, 17, started with another student in the commons area at Mount Zion High School Monday.

"That you did grab Mr. Houze with both hands around his neck placing Mr. Houze in fear of receiving violent injury," Clayton County Magistrate Judge Tammi L. Hayward told Whitlock, reading from the warrant. "This incident caused a major school disruption."

"Well if you hit a teacher then you ought to be out of school," Chapman told Channel 2's Tom Jones.

Chapman says students who attack educators should be banned from that school. He also urges teachers to file charges if the school won't.

Chapman thinks schools need to send a message when students cross the line.

"It's a lesson that needs to be learned on the front end of life that there are consequences for your actions," he said.

Whitlock received a $10,000 bond. Michel received an $8,000 bond. Both were ordered to stay away from the school.

The school district says it doesn't comment on student disciplinary matters.

WSBTV