Rockdale County, Georgia – A Rockdale County teacher has been arrested and charged following an investigation into an alleged on-campus assault involving a student, according to an incident report released by the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Reported After School Officials Alert Authorities
The case was reported on December 2, 2025, after school administrators contacted law enforcement regarding allegations that a teacher had struck a student inside a classroom. A responding deputy, who serves as a school resource officer, documented the complaint and initiated the investigation.
According to the report, the alleged incident occurred after other students were asked to leave the classroom. Investigators state that the interaction escalated into a physical encounter between the teacher and the student.
Charges Filed Against Teacher
The suspect was identin Sheriff’s Office Report
According to investigators, the student was allegedly struck multiple times in the head and stomach during the incident. The report states that at least one other student remained in the classroom and witnessed the encounter.
Due to privacy protections under Georgia’s Open Records Act, the names of the students and witnesses involved were redacted and not made public.
Teacher’s Response to Allegations
Deputies later located McClain at the Rockdale County Public School Board of Education building, where they made contact with him. During the interaction, McClain reportedly characterized the incident as:
“Horseplay.”
Despite that explanation, deputies proceeded with the arrest based on the findings of the investigation. Law enforcement confirmed that body-worn camera footage was activated during the encounter.
McClain was arrested, searched, and transported to the Rockdale County Jail without incident.
Community Reaction and Prior Recognition Claims
The arrest has drawn additional public attention after claims surfaced that McClain had previously been recognized as a Teacher of the Year. School officials have not publicly confirmed those claims, and no information has been released regarding McClain’s current employment status or any administrative actions taken by the school district.
The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office has not indicated whether additional charges or disciplinary proceedings could follow.
Legal Status and Presumption of Innocence
Authorities emphasized that the charges against McClain are allegations at this stage. Under the law, he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Court records related to bond, initial appearance, or future hearings have not yet been released publicly.
Broader Concerns About School Safety
The incident has renewed concerns among parents and community members about student safety in classrooms and the role of school resource officers in responding to allegations involving educators. Law enforcement officials reiterated that any reports involving potential harm to children are treated with heightened urgency.
Parents are encouraged to report concerns directly to school administrators or law enforcement if they believe a student may be at risk.
What Happens Next
Investigators have indicated that the case remains under review, and additional information may be released as court proceedings move forward. School district officials are expected to provide further updates regarding internal reviews or policy actions.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more verified details become available.
If you have information related to this case or concerns about school safety in your area, share your experiences in the comments below.
