A substitute teacher has been removed from a Minnesota classroom after allegedly reenacting the murder of George Floyd, a Black man who died in 2020 after a white officer pinned his neck to the pavement. The unnamed police officer, who was working as a substitute teacher at Woodbury High School, reportedly placed a student’s head on the hood of a car during the reenactment.
In addition to the reenactment, the substitute teacher is accused of making “racially harmful” and sexist comments to students. The man also reportedly spoke about disturbing instances involving dead bodies he had seen. The incident has sparked outrage, leading to the teacher’s removal from the school as well as the staffing agency that placed him.
The South Washington County Schools officials have initiated an investigation into the matter. The school district serves approximately 18,700 students across 25 schools in seven communities, with a significant portion of the student body identifying as a race other than white.
Principal Sarah Sorenson-Wanger of Woodbury High School expressed embarrassment and regret over the reported behaviour of the substitute teacher. She condemned the actions, stating that such conduct would not be tolerated in the school or the district. The school is taking steps to address the incident, including creating open space for discussions that promote healing, action, and education.
Following complaints from students about the substitute teacher’s inappropriate behaviour, the incident has been reported to the Minnesota Department of Education, the state teacher licensing board, and the Woodbury Police Department. The man is now prohibited from setting foot on district property.
The staffing agency responsible for placing the substitute teacher, Teachers on Call, confirmed that the man had passed comprehensive background checks before being hired. However, in light of the unacceptable actions displayed, he has been terminated from employment. The agency stressed its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of violent, aggressive, or harmful behaviour within educational settings.
Woodbury Police Chief Jason Posel has pledged to thoroughly investigate the incident and provide support to the impacted students. The police department is committed to handling the matter with sensitivity and compassion. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to determine which law enforcement agency employs the substitute teacher.
The shocking incident at Woodbury High School has prompted calls for accountability and underscores the importance of promoting a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.