A 350-pound science teacher in Minnesota has been placed on probation and ordered to complete community service and anger management courses after using a student as a "stepping stool" during a class in February 2025. Jason Rogers, 49, avoided jail time but will have his record wiped clean if he adheres to the terms of his probation.
Rogers, who taught fifth and sixth graders at Underwood School, admitted to standing on the back of a student who was lying on his stomach. According to court documents, Rogers told authorities he did not feel the class was taking a lockdown drill seriously. The incident left the student in significant pain, with court documents describing his difficulty walking afterward as akin to an "80-year-old."
Rogers, who also coached wrestling and football, resigned from his teaching position in April 2025. He pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor offenses of malicious punishment. As part of his sentencing, Rogers was fined $2,250 and must write letters of apology to the students involved. His teaching license has been revoked.
His attorney, Daniel Repka, stated that Rogers made an "unfortunate decision" that ended his career and that he wishes to move forward. Rogers must complete 90 hours of community service as part of his probation.