Fired West Fargo teacher says she was not trying to punish student

WEST FARGO, N.D. (AP) A fired West Fargo music teacher took her case to court today.

Mavis Tjon, who was fired in 2006, is suing the West Fargo School District for wrongful discharge and breach of contract.

Tjon was fired for violating the school's policy on corporal punishment. She says she tapped a student on the head to get his attention and not to punish him.

Tjon demonstrated her action in court this morning.

The student is not expected to testify. Attorneys for both sides agreed to have East Central Judicial District Judge Frank Racek (RAY'-sik) view the boy's videotaped statements rather than have him take the witness stand.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 03-05-08 1531CST | save this article / add to your favorites list