Florence Teacher Speaks Out Following ‘Insensitive’ Post From School

Florence Teacher Speaks Out Following ‘Insensitive’ Post From School

A teacher from Royall Elementary School in Florence, has publicly addressed the Florence 1 Schools’ Board of Trustees regarding the potentially insensitive post made by the school on social media three weeks ago. The controversial post has led to the dismissal or suspension of two principals and multiple other employees.

Background of the Incident

The post in question, which has since been deleted, contained photos of two staff members wearing “U.S. Border Patrol” t-shirts standing before a brick wall which was part of a Mexico-themed display. The display was created for a school event that was designed to highlight different countries and cultures. The swift reactions by the school district, including the removal of the employees involved, has led to a significant backlash from some members of the school community.

Teacher’s Outrage over the Incident

Alissa Bennett, a teacher at Royall Elementary, expressed her disappointment in the school district’s immediate reaction to the incident. She conveyed her thoughts in a statement to the school board members while doing her best to defend the school’s reputation.

Alissa stated, “My name is Alissa Bennett and I proudly teach at Royall Elementary School, where I’ve worked for the past four years. I have been in elementary education for the past 14 years, teaching in various positions across the United States, from Alaska to South Carolina. However, never once in deciding on a profession, did I think I would choose a career, that required absolute perfection.”

Bennett criticised the district’s decision, claiming they acted in haste and did not fully investigate the situation. Moreover, she expressed her concern for the lasting impact this incident would have on the school and the district as a whole. She argued that this decision was wrong and criticized the district for letting down their community and those individuals who have stood behind them and worked hard to enhance the quality of education.

Aftermath of the Incident

In response to the incident, F1S Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley issued a statement declaring the search for a new principal would begin immediately. He has further appointed Brittany Bennett as the Assistant Principal, who will take up her position from August 6.

O’Malley’s statement asserted, “I want to, again, assure the Royall Community that the school will continue to provide an exceptional education for all students, with the high expectations and excellence in student achievement that have always been provided by our staff at Royall.”

The day after the social media post stirred up controversy, Royall Elementary issued an apology, stating, “It is with regret that we acknowledge that a picture that was posted on our Facebook page yesterday showed an insensitive disregard for the current challenges our Hispanic population faces.”

Nonetheless, the incident has ignited a wave of disappointment and disgust among local Mexican-American community members, with Annette Fling expressing her distaste publicly and gaining national media attention.

This incident highlights the importance of sensitivity and awareness of cultural portrayals for schools and educational institutions, which should remain mindful of their roles not only as educators but as role models for impressionable young minds. A single mistake can lead to significant repercussions and lasting damage to a school’s reputation and standing within its community.