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Former West Hempstead teacher faces charges for student abuse

Investigators say John O’Dwyer hit the child with a closed fist when he answered questions incorrectly.

Tara Rincon

Jan 28, 2026, 5:20 AM

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A former special education teacher is accused of repeatedly striking a student on the head.

Investigators say John O’Dwyer hit the child with a closed fist when he answered questions incorrectly.

O'Dwyer injured a second child while working for a behavioral health company called Family of Kidz, according to court documents.

The former educator has pleaded not guilty to endangering the welfare of a child and endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person.

The school district says it reported the allegations when it learned of them.

News 12 has reached out to Family of Kidz for a comment and are waiting to hear back.

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