How is this possibly child abuse?
Probably more of a hate crime. /s
I imagine this student has a very long disciplinary record. Which no doubt does not include any actual discipline. So I can understand the teacher being at the end of his rope. Unfortunately the fact he was physical with the student can be classified as assault. Not sure if that automatically means a child abuse charge when a minor is involved but would not be surprised.
It would be great if the school stuck up for the teacher, but they won’t.
This was common when I went to school, and it still should be allowed it’s the only way teachers can control I classroom. Parents of the offending child should be charge for not teaching proper behavior.