JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A paraprofessional at Alden Road Exceptional Student Center has been arrested on felony child abuse charges following an alleged incident involving a student on campus.
Duval County School police arrested Donald Heine after the alleged incident. The Florida Department of Children and Families has been notified and is involved in the case.
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“Earlier today, paraprofessional Donald Heine was arrested on felony child abuse charges following an alleged incident involving a student on our campus,” Principal Joseph Blitch said in a message to parents and guardians about the arrest. “While the legal process is ongoing and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty, the allegations are deeply concerning and are inconsistent with the standards of care, professionalism, and respect we expect from every employee.”
Heine is prohibited from being on campus while a criminal investigation and an internal human resources investigation are underway.
Duval County Public Schools said it has been in direct contact with the student’s family.
“I want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority,” Principal Blitch said. “We are committed to providing every student with a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment, and we will continue to take appropriate action whenever concerns about student safety arise.”
The district emphasized its commitment to transparency while protecting the integrity of the ongoing investigations. Families seeking additional information may submit requests for the police report or employee personnel records through the district’s public records portal.