NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Abby Zwerner, a former school teacher at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, is now heading to trial in her lawsuit following a tragic incident. Zwerner was shot by her own 6-year-old student in her classroom. The judge has ruled that her $40 million lawsuit against Newport News Public Schools can proceed.
Attorneys Diane Toscano, Kevin Biniazan, and Jeffrey Breit, representing Zwerner, expressed their satisfaction with the decision. They stated that this victory brings them closer to holding the Newport News School Board accountable for their actions.
In November, Circuit Court Judge Matthew Hoffman initially allowed Zwerner’s lawsuit to move forward, ruling that the case did not fall under worker’s compensation. However, the judge also granted the school system the opportunity to appeal the decision.
Anne C. Lahren, an attorney for Newport News Public Schools, argued that Zwerner’s injuries should be covered by Virginia’s Worker’s Compensation Act. Despite their efforts, the interlocutory appeal was denied and the case will now proceed to trial. Lahren believes that the Supreme Court of Virginia will ultimately determine that the injuries do fall under the jurisdiction of worker’s compensation.
It is essential to note that Deja Taylor, the mother of the 6-year-old boy who shot Zwerner, was sentenced to two years in prison last December for her role in the incident.
Zwerner’s lawsuit represents an important case in addressing the accountability of schools when it comes to protecting their teachers, as well as the welfare of students. The trial will provide an opportunity for Zwerner to present her case and seek justice for the injuries she suffered.
As this case continues to develop, it raises important questions about the responsibility of schools to ensure the safety of their staff and students. The outcome of this trial could set a precedent for future cases involving similar incidents in educational settings. It will be interesting to see how the court addresses the issue of worker’s compensation and determines whether the school should be held liable for the incident.
In the pursuit of justice, Zwerner’s case represents a crucial moment for teachers across the nation who face potential dangers in their classrooms. The trial will provide a platform to shed light on the challenges faced by educators and the support they require from school systems.
As the trial unfolds, both sides will present their arguments and evidence, hoping to sway the jury in their favor. The outcome of this case will not only impact Zwerner’s life but also influence the approach and policies of schools when it comes to ensuring the safety of their teachers and students.
Zwerner’s lawsuit serves as a reminder of the vulnerability educators can face in their profession and the importance of addressing these concerns adequately within the education system. The trial will be closely watched by many, as it could have far-reaching implications for the protection and well-being of teachers and students in schools nationwide.