Global Courant
A Virginia teacher who was shot by a 6-year-old student earlier this year will not return to that campus when classes resumesaid a source close to the educator.
Abigail Zwerner “will not be back in the fall” when students return from summer break at the Newport News Public Schools and Richneck Elementary School, the source told NBC News Tuesday.
Messages of support for teacher Abby Zwerner adorn the front door of Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, on Jan. 9. John C. Clark / AP file
The source close to Zwerner requested anonymity as she is not authorized to speak on the matter. A Newport News Public Schools representative was not immediately available for comment Tuesday.
Zwerner was in her first-grade class on Jan. 6 when the youngster pulled out a 9mm Taurus firearm, which he had brought from home to campus, and then fired one shot, officials said.
The bullet passed through her Zwerner’s hand and into her upper chest, but the teacher still had the presence of mind to guide students from the classroom to safety.
Abigail Zwerner, an elementary school teacher in Virginia, reviews some letters and gifts sent to her on March 20 by people across the country.Carlos Bernate for NBC News
Zwerner and other teachers reportedly informed school administrators of their concerns about the young student, who regularly acted in class.
The teacher filed a $40 million lawsuit against the school district in early April, accusing the defendants of ignoring a disturbing pattern of violent behavior.
The mother of that young accused shooter pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to using marijuana while carrying a firearm.
Deja Taylor is accused of lying about her marijuana use on a form when she bought the gun that her son later used to shoot Zwerner.
