EXCLUSIVE: What Happened to RJ? A Mother Seeks Justice and Answers For Her Son!
Family Demands Answers from Bridges Public Charter School
A Washington, DC family is searching for answers after a substitute teacher at Bridges Public Charter School mistreated their five-year-old autistic son, RJ. The teacher, Tameka Young, was fired after posting a derogatory video of RJ online with the caption “. This shocking incident has left RJ’s parents devastated and demanding accountability.
The Incident Unfolds
RJ’s mother, Brianna, describes the experience as overwhelming. Her son, who is nonverbal, requires individual care to stay safe and thrive in a classroom. Young, who had been working as RJ’s aide for just two days, posted a photo on Facebook showing RJ lying on the floor. The image included a disrespectful caption and a passed-out emoji covering RJ’s face.
When RJ’s father picked him up from school on Thursday and Friday, December 13th, nothing seemed unusual. However, later that Friday, the family received a vague call stating that a teacher was fired for posting their son online. They were promised more details on Monday, but no follow-up came.
A Shocking Discovery
Frustrated, Brianna went to the school on Tuesday, December 17th, seeking answers. Instead of the promised video footage, the school provided only a screenshot. To her horror, the image showed RJ’s hand inside an electrical device—a highly unusual behavior for her active and adventurous child.
Brianna reviewed the school’s job requirements for substitutes working with special needs students. She questioned how someone like Young, who demonstrated such poor judgment, was hired in the first place.
The Aftermath
Since the incident, RJ’s behavior has changed drastically. He has stopped speaking, pulls at his hair, and refuses to eat, resulting in a 17-pound weight loss. Despite these alarming signs, the school has offered little clarity or resolution.
The family’s requests for the full video have been ignored, and the school’s principal has avoided answering key questions. Local authorities and child protection agencies have also failed to provide support, citing jurisdictional issues.
A Call for Justice and Change
RJ’s mother is urging the community to take action. She is demanding stricter hiring practices for special education staff and additional support for RJ, including a dedicated aide and counseling.
“This isn’t just about my son,” Brianna says. “It’s about protecting every child from harm.”
How You Can Help
If you have information about the incident or have worked with Tameka Young, RJ’s family encourages you to come forward. Community members can also help by sharing RJ’s story and contacting local representatives to demand stronger protections for special education students.
Together, we can ensure every child’s safety and dignity in the classroom.
