CHERRY HILL, N.J. (AP) -- School officials say a southern New Jersey teacher accused of verbally abusing an autistic student has been placed on paid leave.

Cherry Hill Superintendent Maureen Reusche says she took the action to minimize the "disruption to our schools" regarding the allegation against Kelly Altenburg, a special education teacher. Days ago, a parent posted on YouTube clips of secretly recorded audio that caught one adult calling his autistic 10-year-old son "a bastard."

Altenburg's lawyers say an investigation by the district found that Altenburg was not in the room when the remarks were made. Officials say the employees heard on the recording made in February are no longer with the district.

In growing numbers, parents are turning to secret audio recordings to catch verbally abusive school employees.