Woodland, CA - A former special-education teacher from the Woodland Joint Unified School District is set to appear in court next month to face allegations of physically abusing one of her students.
Misdemeanor Charges Filed
Rebecca Lynne Wiley, 47, who taught at Rhoda Maxwell Elementary School, faces misdemeanor counts of battery and child abuse or endangerment stemming from a classroom incident on Jan. 30, 2025. According to court documents, Wiley pleaded not guilty during a Yolo County Superior Court hearing on Nov. 24 and remains free pending her next appearance scheduled for Jan. 20.
Mother’s Account of the Incident
Julie Peters, the child’s mother, alleges that Wiley twice picked up and slammed her 5-year-old autistic son—once in class and again on the playground—leaving him with a visible bruise on his arm. “Totally unacceptable,” Peters told The Davis Enterprise. “I don’t think there’s anything he could have done that would justify that.”
Woodland police began investigating in February, with Sgt. Ryan Bowler confirming that the findings led to a request for criminal charges. The Yolo County District Attorney’s Office filed a complaint in October, setting the case in motion.
School District Response
District spokesman Jerry Jimenez said Wiley was removed from her classroom immediately after the allegations surfaced. “The individual was placed on administrative leave last school year in January 2025, and a thorough investigation was conducted at that time,” Jimenez said. “Ms. Wiley never returned to our campuses and is no longer employed with our district.”
The case resurfaced publicly after the Sacramento Autistic Spectrum and Special Needs Alliance (SASSNA) shared details of Wiley’s court hearing online earlier this month, prompting the district to issue an email update to families reaffirming that student safety remains a top priority.
Broader Concerns Over Special Education Practices
SASSNA’s CEO, Dave Gaines, said his organization has been monitoring the Woodland district’s special-education practices for more than a year. He described ongoing problems affecting schools nationwide, including lack of funding, overworked educators, and hiring gaps that allow repeated misconduct. “There is a national crisis of special education in America,” Gaines said. “California is one of the worst, with districts hiring teachers who already have conduct issues.”
Legal Rights of Autistic Students Abused by Teachers
When autistic students experience physical abuse in the classroom, families often struggle to understand where to turn for help or how to hold schools accountable. In this interview, seasoned California abuse lawyer Jason Amala about the legal options available to victims, the responsibilities of school districts under state law, and the steps parents can take to protect their children and prevent further harm.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: This situation deeply concerns many parents of autistic children. What legal avenues are available to families when a teacher physically abuses a student with special needs?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Families have the right to file both a criminal complaint and a civil lawsuit. If the teacher’s conduct amounts to abuse or neglect, the school district may also face liability. Under California law, districts can be held responsible when they fail to supervise staff, ignore prior warnings, or don’t act after complaints of mistreatment. These are serious violations of a child’s right to safety and a proper education.
Banville: Are there specific protections for autistic or special-needs students under California law?
Amala: Yes. State and federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), require that schools provide a safe, supportive environment. When that standard is violated, parents can file claims for both physical and emotional harm. They can also seek compensation for disrupted educational services or therapies that were lost as a result of the abuse.
Banville: What immediate steps should parents take if they suspect abuse?
Amala: They should contact law enforcement right away, request that the district document and investigate the incident, and gather any evidence—photos, medical reports, or witness statements. It’s also important to speak with an attorney experienced in school abuse cases to make sure their child’s rights are fully protected and to prevent future harm to other students.
Take Action and Protect Your Family
Students and families affected by teacher misconduct deserve accountability and support. If your child has been abused or mistreated by an educator or school staff member, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Our attorneys stand ready to help you understand your rights and explore every option for justice. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and let our legal team guide you through the next steps.
