SOTA teacher on leave over claims of racially inflammatory lesson

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — A School of the Arts teacher is on leave and the principal sent a letter home to parents communicating her concern over what is reported to be a racially inflammatory lesson.

The principal’s letter confirmed that the alleged incident happened during a social studies class this past Tuesday and said the claims are being taken very seriously, calling them "extremely troubling".

School Board President Cynthia Elliott said: "In a District of black and brown students, it is important to be sensitive of the historical framework by which our students are engaging and learning."

The letter from the principal said school counselors will be available for students who may need to talk about the situation.

The principal is inviting anyone with any information to share to contact the school.

The full letter sent to parents is below (mobile users, click here):

Letter to Affected 7th Grade Social Studies Class Families by News10NBC on Scribd