Andrew McCool, a teacher at South Lake High School in Seattle, Wash., is under investigation after allegedly choking and slapping a student on Wednesday, KOMO News reports.
Student Iridian Sanchez told the station the incident occurred when McCool unsuccessfully attempted to get the students to pay attention to the class.
"The teacher told him like four times be quiet," Sanchez, told KOMO News. "And the kids were laughing at him, making jokes at him."
Seattle Police Det. Renee Witt told the station that when the students refused to quiet down, McCool yelled profanities then grabbed one student by the throat and slapped him.
The Seattle Times reports the student went to the nurse's office and, after police were called, was taken to the hospital.
"This type of action is inexcusable, and I want you to know that we take the safety and security of our students very seriously," South Lake Principal Barbara Moore said in response to the incident, according to the Seattle Times. "This teacher has been directed to stay away from South Lake High School and not have any contact with District students, staff and parents while the investigation occurs."
Police spokeswoman Renee Witt told Fox Q13 that the victim had "red marks on his neck" consistent with what would occur after being choked.
McCool was arrested and then released pending possible charges. He remains on paid administrative leave until the investigation is completed.