Testimony was expected to begin this morning in a trial of a Sharpsville mother accused of punching a teacher in front of his sixth-grade class.

Victoria M. Morrison, 33, of 1027 Ridge Ave., is charged by Sharpsville police with simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and aggravated assault. Police said Mrs. Morrison repeatedly punched Sharpsville Middle School teacher Lewis Rosa on Feb. 23, in his classroom and pulled his shirt to get him into the hallway.

Mrs. Morrison contends she never hit Rosa and that Rosa mishandled her daughter.

After the alleged assault, Rosa was treated at the hospital of Sharon Regional Health System. Police Chief Bruce Rosa, who is the teacher's cousin, said the teacher previously underwent surgery for a heart attack.

Tuesday, a jury of nine women and six men, including three alternates, was seated before Mercer County Common Pleas Court Judge Francis J. Fornelli. They were chosen from a pool of more than 100.

Students are expected to be among the witnesses.

Mrs. Morrison is free on her own recognizance.