Buckhorn Middle School Teacher Arrested and Suspended by School Officials Following Allegations of Assault on Special Needs Student

HUNTSVILLE – The Madison County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of a special needs teacher at Buckhorn Middle School following an investigation into allegations of assault on a special needs student.

On November 19, 2024, a Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer (SRO) at Buckhorn Middle School received a complaint from school administrators regarding an alleged incident involving a special needs student and a special needs teacher. The complainant alleged that the teacher may have assaulted the student.

The Madison County School System immediately initiated its own investigation in collaboration with the MCSO. The school

provided valuable assistance to the investigation, including statements and video surveillance footage that helped to shed light on the incident.

As a result of the investigation, Sheriff’s detectives arrested and charged Karen Yvette Howard, 60, with the charge of Torture/Willful Abuse of a Child. The school took swift action, suspending the teacher, pending further investigation by MCSS and any potential legal proceedings.

“We take allegations of assault on any student very seriously, and we are grateful for the cooperation of the school administration and the swift action taken in this matter,” said Sheriff Kevin Turner. “We will continue to work closely with the school to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.”

The MCSO would like to remind the public that all allegations of assault or abuse are taken seriously and will be thoroughly investigated. If you or someone you know has been a victim of assault or abuse, please contact the MCSO at (256)722-7181.