Thanks dianavan for clarifying the circumstances for us. I can easily understand how things escalated with this student because of having a sub education assistant for the day. Even in our high school, any time there is a change in the routine, some kids will act out, get testy, etc. It is a well known phenomenon, as humans are all creatures of habit.

That said, I do still believe you should document the circumstances with your union this week though, in case any question came up surrounding the incident in the future. You need to document, in writing, your version of events, and make sure you have given them to someone in your union who could attest that your version of events wasn't done long after the incident when memories become faulty. It never looks good when someone writes down their account after being challenged. That is why I always keep written records of serious discipline issues with problem students that I send up the chain to administration.

Since you have been given the OK physically by your doctor, I'm guessing a week off at this time of year will do you a world of good to get back on your feet. Then summer isn't too far off, and if you won't be teaching that student's grade next year, you will be done with this student. Remember, you have much to proud of with this child, but you have now likely reached the point where it is time to let them and you move on to make way for next year's students.

Good luck with the rest of your year, and remember it's all downhill from here.

Postscript about the dark humor remark made by someone above. I did state that this sort of humor doesn't belong in the workplace, but if I didn't make that clear enough, I'd like to clarify that now. I would never engage in this sort of humor in my workplace, and I would never engage in it with my colleagues even outside of work. That sort of humor is best shared with people who either aren't educators, or educators you work with who don't understand and appreciate an ironic sense of humor.    And in the US, that means most people. You need to find someone who understands you, and the pressures and frustrations of your job stresses. It really isn't hard, if you have a good support network of family and friends.