Sandburg MS Principal charged with assault after spanking a kid

Corporal punishment is not illegal in Virginia. However, it is illegal for schools to administer it, except physical force necessary in certain circumstances.

While I think his actions are in a gray area, he didn't commit assault.

The actions he took probably do not fall into the area of physical force allowed by schools. But the actions are also not illegal under Virginia law, as corporal punishment (spanking) IS legal here.

At worst, he should undergo training on Virginia law in regards to punishment, and acceptable disciplinary practices for public schools.

22.1-279.1
Punishment Allowed Corporal punishment prohibited, but "incidental, minor or reasonable physical contact or other actions" permitted to maintain order and control; reasonable and necessary force permitted to quell a disturbance or remove a child to prevent harm, in self-defense, to obtain possession of weapon, etc.