The Roundabout

Substitute Teacher Banned After Allegedly Reenacting George Floyd Restraint at Woodbury High

By Pat Mack

On Monday, a substitute English teacher at Woodbury High School allegedly placed a student on the ground during class to reenact the police restraint used in the murder of George Floyd. It was just one of several “racially harmful” actions by the teacher, according to an email from the school and district to students, staff and families. The substitute has been banned from the district.

“I specifically want to acknowledge racial harm that occurred when the substitute teacher reenacted the prone restraint that resulted in the murder of George Floyd,” the email states. “This reported behavior is reprehensible. I am embarrassed, and I am sorry this happened to our students. We will take as much time as students need to listen and create open space for courageous conversations that lead to healing, action and education.”

The email was signed by Sarah Sorenson-Wagner, Woodbury High School principal, Julie Nielsen, South Washington County Schools superintendent, and Kristine Schaefer, assistant superintendent.

Click here for more on this story.

Update on Woodbury News Net:

We are a non-profit organization creating a credible news source for Woodbury. We saw a void created when the local newspaper closed a few years ago and are committed to filling it with accurate and fair information. Our leadership team includes Paul Huffman, Susan Kent, Pat Mack, Rich Radke, Kathy Saltzman, and Manali Shah. Please continue to share this newsletter with friends and encourage them to join our email list. It’s free and always will be!

Contact the newsroom by clicking here.