Family Hires Attorney After Girl Punished for Hugging Classmate

OVIEDO, Fla. - The family of a girl who was given detention for hugging a classmate has hired an attorney.

In a news release from the attorney's office, Morgan & Morgan, Matt Morgan said the law firm was hired to help raise awareness about the issue.

The incident happened Monday at Jackson Heights Middle School in Oviedo.

"I'm definitely hoping that we're bringing light to this subject," said Kathy Fishbough, whose daughter, Ella, was punished. "I really didn't expect this."

Morgan said he believes that there may be policies in place that discourage children from being kind to one another.

"According to these alleged policies and procedures, a simple hug given to a friend in their time of need is apparently worthy of reprimand," the law office said in a statement. "We believe this conduct sends the wrong message to our children. They should be encouraged to be kind, not discouraged. The family hopes to bring awareness to this issue in an attempt to make our school systems a more compassionate and loving place for children to spend their days."

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