A former assistant teacher at a Staten Island Kiddie Academy is accused of slapping and dragging a three-year-old student during class, according to a lawsuit filed by the child's parents. The incident allegedly occurred on October 14, 2025, at the Kiddie Academy of Staten Island.
Video footage purportedly shows the assistant teacher, Silvia Beshay, striking the child with an open hand before dragging him across the room. The parents, Ariana and Joseph Lebron, filed the lawsuit in Staten Island Supreme Court on September 21, alleging permanent physical and emotional injuries to their son. They are seeking unspecified damages from Beshay, Kiddie Academy, and the city's Department of Education (DOE).
Beshay was terminated from her position at Kiddie Academy on the day of the alleged assault. A spokesperson for the city's Department of Education stated that Beshay is now barred from working for city public schools or their partners. Police arrested Beshay on November 7, and she pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, the Staten Island District Attorney's office confirmed that the case has since been dropped and sealed, declining to comment on the reason for dismissal.
The Lebrons, who are real estate agents, issued a statement expressing their primary concern for their son's well-being and healing, and stated they trust the legal process.
Kiddie Academy released a statement asserting their commitment to the safety of the children in their care. The academy stated that its leadership team immediately dismissed the employee and reported the matter to the authorities. They emphasized their commitment to responding appropriately and creating a nurturing and safe environment.
As an assistant teacher at Kiddie Academy, Beshay would have been required to undergo a security clearance process, including fingerprinting and a criminal background check, as mandated for all school employees working with children. The Kiddie Academy website indicates that all educators must meet or exceed state requirements, which include background clearance and educational qualifications. Assistant teachers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Beshay and legal representatives for the city did not respond to requests for comment. Attorneys for the Lebrons and the DOE also declined to comment.