Article Contributed on: 3/1/2006 5:47:55 PM
The Cherry Creek School District
is conducting a thorough investigation of a complaint from an Overland High School
parent and student concerning comments teacher Jay Bennish made in his 10th
grade World Geography class about President Bush’s State of the Union Address.
The parent said he believed the comments were biased and inappropriate for a
geography class.
From listening to the recording of the class made by the
student, it seems evident that a breach of district policy occurred regarding
the balanced presentation of sensitive material. The district is taking the
following steps to deal with this apparent violation of district
policy
and expectations during the class.
1. Determine if this is an isolated incident or a pattern of
behavior.
2. Correct the breach of district policy and expectations.
3. Take immediate action to resolve student and parent
complaints in a fair and reasonable manner.
4. Present a balanced viewpoint to effected students in
regard to the President’s State of the Union Address.
5. Use this as an opportunity to ensure that all staff
understand and comply with district policy and expectations regarding balanced
presentations on sensitive subject matter.
6. Make certain that communication timelines are clear so
that parents receive a prompt response to any complaints.
The district is in the process of identifying any personnel
actions that may be necessary.