Madison High School Staffer Placed on Leave After Allegedly Feeding Dog Food to Student

Police investigating incident involving non-verbal autistic student at Madison East High School

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A staff member at Madison East High School in Wisconsin has been placed on administrative leave after allegedly feeding dog food to a 15-year-old non-verbal autistic student. The incident occurred on February 13, and the Madison Metropolitan School District has confirmed they are investigating the matter and reviewing staff procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about the treatment and care of students with special needs, especially those who are non-verbal and unable to advocate for themselves. It also highlights the importance of proper training and oversight for school staff to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students.

The details

According to the report, the 15-year-old student, who is autistic and non-verbal, was allegedly given wet dog food instead of the regular school lunch. The Madison Metropolitan School District has confirmed that the staff member involved has been placed on administrative leave while they conduct an internal investigation. The district also stated that they have zero tolerance for actions that compromise student safety and well-being, and that they are committed to providing students with a safe learning environment.

  • The incident allegedly occurred on February 13, 2026.

The players

Madison Metropolitan School District

The school district that oversees Madison East High School, where the incident took place. The district has confirmed the incident and stated that they are investigating the matter and reviewing staff procedures.

15-year-old autistic student

The non-verbal student who was allegedly fed dog food by a staff member at Madison East High School.

Madison Police Department

The police department that is investigating the incident, with detectives from the Special Victims Unit leading the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“The Madison Metropolitan School District takes student safety and well-being seriously. We have zero tolerance for actions that compromise student safety and well-being. When issues arise, we respond immediately and must also follow due process.”

— Madison Metropolitan School District (WTMJ)

What’s next

Detectives with the Madison Police Department's Special Victims Unit are continuing their investigation into the incident, and the Madison Metropolitan School District has stated that they are reviewing staff procedures and protocols to help ensure that a similar incident does not occur again.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of proper training, oversight, and accountability for school staff, especially when it comes to the care and treatment of students with special needs. It also underscores the need for robust policies and procedures to protect the safety and well-being of all students in the education system.