News Summary
In a shocking incident at White Knoll High School in Lexington County, teacher Fritzie Suerto Refamonte has been arrested for third-degree assault and battery after allegedly using a non-verbal student’s hands to strike their face. This alarming situation has raised concerns about the safety of students, especially those with special needs. An investigation is underway as community members discuss the implications of this incident on educator responsibilities and student well-being.
Shocking Incident at White Knoll High School: Teacher Charged with Assaulting Student
In a startling turn of events in Lexington County, a teacher at White Knoll High School has found herself in hot water. Fritzie Suerto Refamonte, a 45-year-old educator, was arrested and charged with third-degree assault and battery after a troubling incident that took place on January 14, 2025. The allegations suggest that Refamonte assaulted a non-verbal student, raising significant concerns within the community about student safety.
The Incident Unfolds
According to reports, the incident involved Refamonte allegedly using the student’s own hands to strike the student’s face. It raises the question of how a teaching moment could escalate into such a severe situation. The teacher, in what she purportedly believed was tutoring the student on behavior, allegedly told the non-verbal student to “hit yourself, not the teacher.” This alarming behavior has left many puzzled and concerned about the best approach to handle students with special needs.
Investigative Actions
Once word of the incident got out, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department jumped into action and launched an investigation. Investigators took the matter seriously, interviewing three witnesses who may have seen what transpired. This thorough approach aimed to ensure that all details surrounding the incident were gathered before making any judgments.
Refamonte was arrested at her home on a Wednesday morning, and she’s currently being held at the Lexington County Detention Center. This surprising case has sparked discussions around the responsibilities and conduct of educators, particularly those who work with vulnerable students.
Community Conversations
As the news continues to circulate, community members are left to ponder the implications for the school and its students. Educators play a crucial role in shaping young minds, and incidents like these can cast a shadow over the positive impact many teachers have in their classrooms. Parents, students, and faculty are encouraged to engage in open dialogues to ensure a supportive environment that prioritizes student safety.
A Day Off for Presidents Day
In other local news, residents in West Columbia should take note that city hall will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025, in observance of Presidents Day. Normal operating hours will resume the following day, February 18, 2025. Don’t forget, if you normally have yard trash pickup on Mondays, it won’t occur on that day!
Exciting Chili Cookoff Rescheduled!
And if you’re looking for something fun to do, mark your calendars! The much-anticipated 11th annual Lexington County Chili Cookoff has been rescheduled to March 2, 2025, due to inclement weather. This hot event will take place from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Icehouse Amphitheater, located at 107 W. Main St. in Lexington. For those who already bought tickets for the original date of February 16, rest assured they will still be valid!
Admission is priced at $15 for adults and $5 for children aged 12 and under. Just a heads up—ticket prices will rise to $20 for adults on the day of the event, so grab them early! Proceeds from the cookoff will support local charities in Lexington County, making this not just a tasty event, but a heartfelt one.
As we watch the developments with the teacher’s case unfold, let’s not forget to support our local community through events that bring us together. Whether it’s voicing safety concerns or enjoying a bowl of chili, participation makes all the difference.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Couple Arrested for Encouraging Teen Violence
Columbia Residents on High Alert After Local Shooting
Local Man Arrested for Assault and Stalking in Lexington, S.C.
Former Councilman Billy R. Oswald Arrested in West Columbia
Former Teacher Arrested for Assault at Lexington High School
Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Lexington County Chili Cookoff Rescheduled
- Lexington County Sheriff: Community Tip Leads to Drug Arrests
- WLTX: Crime Data in Lexington County
- Lexington Chronicle: Early Voting in Lexington County
- Cola Daily: Teacher Charged with Assaulting Student
- Wikipedia: Lexington County, South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Google Search: Lexington County news
