Texas teachers placed on leave for giving students sleep aids
- Parents in Spring, Texas, reported that their young children were given sleep aid patches in the classroom.
- The patches, containing melatonin, were discovered by parents when children brought them home.
- The school district has placed the involved staff on leave and is investigating the allegations to ensure student safety.
In Spring, Texas, on October 10, 2024, two elementary school teachers and two aides were placed on administrative leave following allegations of administering sleep aids to young students. Parents reported that their children, some as young as four years old, were given peel-and-stick patches containing melatonin during nap time. The patches, marketed as Sleep Z patches, include various ingredients aimed at promoting sleep. Concerns arose when parents discovered their children had brought these patches home, prompting an investigation by the Spring ISD Police Department. The school district has a strict policy against administering any medications, including herbal supplements, to students. Parents expressed outrage over the incident, demanding accountability and potential criminal charges against the staff involved. The school district has stated that it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and is committed to ensuring a safe educational environment for all students.