Texas Kindergarten Teacher Arrested for Allegedly Abusing Student

Aide claims teacher twisted 5-year-old's arm and forced him into a corner over a broken pencil

Feb. 25, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A 64-year-old kindergarten teacher in Waco, Texas has been arrested and charged after allegedly physically abusing a 5-year-old student who broke a pencil in her class. According to a teacher's aide, the teacher twisted the child's arm, put her knee in his back, and forced him into a corner as punishment.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the treatment of young students by teachers, who are entrusted to provide a safe and nurturing environment. It also highlights the importance of having proper protocols in place to report and investigate allegations of abuse in schools.

The details

The alleged incident occurred on January 8, 2026 at J.H. Hines Elementary School in Waco. A teacher's aide reported witnessing the 64-year-old teacher, Pamela Mitchell, physically abuse a 5-year-old student after he broke a pencil. The aide said Mitchell twisted the child's arm behind his back, forced him out of a chair, and used her knee to push him into a corner.

  • The incident was reported to have occurred on January 8, 2026.
  • Mitchell was arrested on February 19, 2026 and booked into McLennan County Jail.

The players

Pamela Mitchell

A 64-year-old kindergarten teacher at J.H. Hines Elementary School in Waco, Texas who was arrested and charged for allegedly physically abusing a 5-year-old student.

J.H. Hines Elementary School

The elementary school in Waco, Texas where the alleged incident of teacher abuse occurred.

Waco Independent School District

The school district that oversees J.H. Hines Elementary School and confirmed the teacher's termination and their commitment to student safety.

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What they’re saying

“Waco ISD is committed to the safety and well-being of every student. We take every incident that risks the safety of our students seriously and investigate every report thoroughly to ensure our schools remains safe, supportive environments.”

— Jill Anderson, Waco Independent School District spokesperson

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Pamela Mitchell to be released on bail as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This disturbing case underscores the need for rigorous teacher training, strong reporting protocols, and zero tolerance for any abuse of young students, who should feel safe and nurtured in the classroom.