The newly elected president of the Seattle teachers union, Ibi Idowu, is under investigation for allegations of abuse involving an autistic child. Idowu has been on paid leave since December 2025 following claims from the parents of a third-grader at Rising Star Elementary School. The parents allege that Idowu left bruises on their son's arm, with a police report indicating the presence of four small bruises. The report suggests that the bruising may have been caused by someone grabbing the child by the arm.
Additionally, an attorney representing the child's family stated that a witness, an outside behavioral therapist, reported an incident where Idowu allegedly threw a marker at the child's head, claiming that students were afraid of her. The Seattle Education Association (SEA) stated that they cannot comment on individual investigations but emphasized that employees facing allegations are entitled to a fair investigation process. The SEA also noted that evidence must be established before any disciplinary action can be taken.
The attorney for the family expressed frustration with the school district's policy regarding access to investigation documents, which requires families to submit lengthy public records requests. Idowu, who has been with Seattle Public Schools since 2021, was elected as the union president with her election results certified on May 8, 2026.
