Parents Could Face Jail Time if Their Child Hits a Teacher, According to Georgia Teacher’s Union Proposed Bill "Parent Accountability Act"

The Georgia Federation of Teachers wants state lawmakers to take stronger action against violence in schools. They proposed a new law called the Parent Accountability Act, which would hold parents responsible if their child hits a teacher.

Under this proposed law, parents could face penalties like fines, community service, or even jail time if their child physically attacks school staff. The union aims to reduce the increasing violence in schools with this measure.

The proposal also suggests several support and prevention ideas, including:

- Mandatory mental health screenings for all students in grades 6 to 9.

- Training for school staff to help manage conflicts.

- Parenting classes for guardians of students who frequently misbehave.

This measure may be discussed in the Georgia Legislature when the new session starts in January.

Nationwide, violence against teachers has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, as reported by the American Psychological Association. Recently, the issue got more attention when three DeKalb County students were charged with battery after attacking a teacher in an incident that was recorded and shared on social media.