'Every Parent's Nightmare': Family Speaks Out After NJ Teacher's Aide Charged With Abuse

WAYNE, NJ — A local family says they experienced "every parent's nightmare" when their two-year-old child was abused by a teacher's aide at a Wayne day care.

Prosecutors announced charges against 19-year-old Meghan Hornidge of River Edge on Nov. 12, saying she "slammed and dragged" the child at Apple Montessori School on Aug. 12. Hornidge was charged with fourth-degree abuse of a child and simple assault after injuring the child, officials said.

Spokesperson David B. Lever said the family's legal team is grateful for the prosecutor's office for filing criminal charges against Hornidge.

“This is every parent’s nightmare,” Lever said in a statement. “Our priority remains the well-being of their child, who has endured harm in an environment meant to provide education, enrichment, care and safety."

“We call on parents or families who have faced similar circumstances to come forward and join us in demanding accountability and systemic changes to protect children,” he continued.

The family's legal counsel, Luis A. Martinez, said more action might be taken as attorneys will pursue their own investigation, and await further information and video of the incident from the school.

The preschool, day care, and elementary school is located at 25 Nevins Road in Wayne. Apple Montessori Schools CEO Andrea Vargas said Hornidge was immediately terminated, and that the school promptly notified parents and state authorities.

"We are aware of and have been cooperating with the investigation since day one," Vargas told Patch last month.

"We maintain rigorous hiring standards and checks for our employees, and the safety of the children in our care continues to be our top priority," she added.

The family has chosen to remain anonymous, and requested privacy as the investigation continues.