“Daycare teachers attacked in Bloomingdale while walking toddlers”

via Google maps

Update: Go Fund Me for the Bloomingdale Petit Scholars teachers.

A reader writes: “The man who attacked them is a known aggressive strung out guy who hangs around the neighborhood. So scary.”

From Councilmember Zachary Parker:

“I’m just now leaving Petit Scholars in Bloomingdale, where staff and families have been shaken by a deeply disturbing incident today. Two teachers were attacked near 2nd and S St NW while a group of teachers were walking three classes of toddlers and infants.”

“A man approached asking for money, and when denied, he attacked. One teacher sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering at a nearby hospital. A teacher who attempted to help was also injured but is not hospitalized. Good Samaritans jumped in and helped.”

“I have spoken with Dr. Bazron at DBH, and connected her with LaShada at Petit Scholars to provide support through their Crisis Intervention Team. I am also following up with LaShada to see what additional supports parents need.”

“The assailant has been arrested, and is well-known in the community. It is believed he may have been suffering a mental health crisis, and we are looking into support services for him as well. We have flagged this incident for nearby schools (Dunbar, Friendship, and Mundo Verde).”

“As neighbors are on alert, we’re also following up with MPD about providing an escort for Petit Scholars groups’ safety as they take daily walks and trips to the playground.”

“Neighbors, staff, parents, and students deserve to feel safe in our communities. The devastation of a child witnessing their teacher be attacked is unthinkable. We must keep working to make our communities healthy, whole, and safe.”

“Public safety remains a top priority for my office as I work daily to coordinate with the District’s full public safety apparatus and address residents’ concerns. Please join us for the launch of my Ward 5 Monthly Public Safety Call this Wednesday at 3pm”