Preschool Teacher Fired After Tying Toddler to Chair in Virginia Classroom
The unidentified teacher’s assistant was caught on CCTV tying the 21-month-old to a chair with a blanket at VINCI School Alexandria North in Virginia on Aug. 13, 2025. WUSA9/YouTube
A preschool teacher’s assistant at VINCI School Alexandria North in Virginia has been terminated after being caught on a security camera allegedly tying a 21-month-old child to a chair using a blanket.
The incident occurred during lunchtime around 11:40 a.m., when the assistant reportedly restrained the toddler for 22 minutes. According to a report obtained by AXLNOW from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), the child had allegedly thrown food on the floor and left the table. The assistant claimed she tied the blanket loosely and did not intend harm, but did not attempt any other method to encourage the child to sit.
The incident came to light after the day care’s licensing office alerted VDSS about potential misconduct. A follow-up inspection led to the discovery of the restraint on CCTV footage.
School leadership acknowledged the violation of state regulations. In a statement to local news station WUSA9, Principal Dr. Dan Yang said:
“In child care there are many things that are not black and white. However, we firmly believe that regulations and rules must be followed regardless of our feelings toward the person in question. She did make a big mistake violating regulations, but there was no evidence of abuse or harm caused to the child.”
It’s believed another adult entered the classroom during the incident but did not intervene or untie the child.
Kristina Milam, the regional director of operations, confirmed the assistant had been employed for over four years and was well-regarded by families.
“While we appreciate her past contributions, every individual must be accountable for their actions, and maintaining a safe, compliant environment cannot be traded off,” Milam said.
According to VDSS, the school’s policies strictly prohibit physically restraining children—such as tying them to chairs, car seats, or strollers—as a disciplinary measure or substitute for supervision. Such actions are only permitted as a last resort if a child poses a danger to themselves or others.
Local law enforcement confirmed they were notified by Child Protective Services but determined that no criminal activity had taken place.
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