A six-year-old autistic boy was suspended from Sara Harp Minter Elementary School in Fayette County, Georgia, after he bit his sandwich into the shape of a gun and pointed it at a classmate.
John Medina was removed from school last March, according to his parents and school records. His mother, Kristin Medina, stated that the school contacted her after the incident, informing her that her son was not welcome back. She expressed that the school did not appear to adequately consider her son's disability when making the decision.
Although the incident occurred over a year ago, Kristin Medina has chosen to bring renewed attention to the case, hoping to foster a better understanding among administrators regarding the behavior of children with disabilities. School records indicate that John has faced over two dozen disciplinary actions since 2023, including instances of him kicking and punching other students. He has been suspended 14 times and disciplined at least 33 times during this period. Previous disciplinary actions include being suspended for pointing a water bottle while making gun noises and being reprimanded for drawing a picture of a pilgrim shooting a turkey.
Kristin Medina explained that her son developed an interest in guns after meeting a police officer. She and her husband hired Donna Reynolds, a former special education director, to represent them in discussions with the Fayette County School District.
Reynolds suggested that an incident like this could occur even with a child who does not have autism, noting that young children often mimic actions like forming their fingers into a gun shape or using sticks as toy weapons. She emphasized the importance of school districts thoroughly understanding students' circumstances before imposing discipline, advocating for a comprehensive review that considers the child's age, disability, and past behavior to determine if the situation warrants a teaching moment or disciplinary action that is intended to change behavior.
During a recent board of education meeting, several parents voiced concerns about the perceived unfair treatment of their disabled children by district administrators. They addressed Fayette County Schools Superintendent Jonathan Patterson and other officials. Following their remarks, an Atlanta News First reporter approached Patterson, but was informed by a law enforcement officer that an appointment would be necessary to speak with him. The reporter had previously attempted to contact Patterson without success. Patterson later issued a statement expressing commitment to meeting with parents to resolve challenging situations, acknowledging that agreements may not always be reached but affirming a dedication to continued dialogue.
Since his suspension, John has reportedly been struggling, with his mother sharing that he has expressed feelings of being a "bad kid," a sentiment she finds difficult to hear.
