Incident at Pleasant Hill Elementary Involving 8-Year-Old Student Ryder Smith Under Investigation
PLEASANT HILL, Ill. — An investigation is underway following allegations that an 8-year-old student was physically handled by a music teacher during class at Pleasant Hill Elementary School on November 5, 2025, according to statements provided by the child’s mother.
The student, identified as Ryder Smith, was attending a music class when the leg of his chair reportedly bent, creating an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation in front of classmates. According to his mother, Bethany Smith, Ryder attempted to fix the issue himself by turning the chair over and trying to straighten the bent leg.
The family alleges that the music teacher responded by raising his voice and, without allowing Ryder to explain what had happened, grabbed him by both shoulders and forcefully pushed him backward. Ryder reportedly struck a table before falling to the floor.
According to the mother, while Ryder lay on the ground crying, the teacher allegedly increased the volume of the classroom music and continued to verbally reprimand him. She further claims the teacher instructed her son to remain on the floor until the class period ended.
The incident was reported by the family to the local sheriff’s office. They state they were initially informed that the matter would be investigated and that the teacher could potentially face arrest. The case was later transferred to state police, and the family says they were subsequently notified that no criminal charges would be filed. According to the family, no detailed explanation was provided for that decision.
Bethany Smith reports that multiple students who were present in the classroom witnessed the incident and later provided consistent accounts that supported Ryder’s description of what occurred.
She also alleges that the school’s principal, who also serves as the district superintendent, did not directly notify her of the incident. Instead, she says she was referred to the high school dean of students, an administrator who had no prior involvement with Ryder or familiarity with the family.
When the family requested an official incident report, they were provided with what was described as a “referral report.” In that document, the teacher reportedly stated that he had “removed” Ryder from his chair. The mother disputes that characterization and alleges the school attempted to shift responsibility onto her son.
According to the family, key details about the incident were learned from another student, and those details conflicted with information initially shared by school administrators. The mother further claims that school officials have not adequately acknowledged the seriousness of a staff member physically handling a student.
She also alleges that this incident is not isolated within Pleasant Hill Community Unit School District 4. Earlier in the school year, she says another teacher in the district was asked to resign following multiple complaints from students and parents regarding alleged inappropriate conduct.
In an email from the superintendent/principal, the family states they were informed that the teacher involved in Ryder’s case would return to the classroom effective January 5, 2026, and that the administration considers the matter closed as the district prepares for the second semester.
In a public social media post, Ryder’s mother expressed concern for her son’s emotional well-being, stating that he is fearful of returning to school and that she is deeply troubled by the decisions made by district leadership.
The family says they are continuing to explore legal options and remain committed to seeking accountability, not only for their son but also for other students they believe may be affected. They have stated their intention to continue advocating for student safety and transparency from school officials.
As of now, no additional public comment has been released by the school district or law enforcement regarding any internal review, disciplinary action, or policy changes related to the incident.
