As a former student of Mr. Rodney Napper, I am deeply saddened by the recent events that have led to his administrative leave and possible legal charges. Mr. Napper was more than just an educator at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School in Woodridge, IL; he was a pillar of our community who consistently demonstrated care for his students' success.

Unfortunately, he found himself in an extremely challenging situation where he was provoked into reacting violently due to severe harassment related to personal tragedy - the loss of his son. While we acknowledge that violence is not legally justifiable, it's important to consider the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Mr. Napper exercised restraint and only escalated the situation to ensure the harasser would stop their actions - actions that were deeply disrespectful and emotionally damaging. The real victim here is Mr. Napper who now faces battery charges and has been put on administrative leave from his teaching position.

We believe it's time for justice for Rodney Napper - a man who has given so much to our community and whose actions were driven by extreme emotional distress rather than malice or ill intent.

We call upon local authorities and school administrators at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School to reinstate Mr. Rodney Napper as a teacher, drop all battery charges against him, while ensuring appropriate punishment for those guilty of harassment.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fairness, empathy towards educators dealing with personal tragedies while serving their communities, and justice for Rodney Napper.