ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI) — An Attleboro elementary school teacher accused of slapping two students has been placed on administrative leave. Attleboro Superintendent David Sawyer said the district was informed of the "troubling incident" by administrators at Thatcher Elementary School Tuesday afternoon. "This is disheartening news, as the safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority," Sawyer said. The administrators contacted the district after learning of the physical altercation, which involved an educator and two students. That teacher has not been identified and it's unclear what led up to the physical altercation. Sawyer said the district immediately launched an internal investigation. The district also notified the Attleboro Police Department and the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. "We take situations like this very seriously and are committed to collaborating with Attleboro Police as they conduct a thorough investigation," Sawyer said. 12 News reached out to the Attleboro Police Department regarding the accusations but have not heard back. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW