Freddie Watts, principal, and Jimmy Smith, assistant principal, are African American administrators assigned to administer a predominantly black high school. Ann Griffin, a white tenured teacher, during a heated conversation with the two administrators stated that she "hated all black folks." When word leaked on her statement, it caused negative reactions among colleagues both black and white. The principal recommended dismissal based on concerns regarding her ability to treat students fairly and her judgment and competency as a teacher.
1. Is Watts justified in his recommending Ann's dismissal? Why or why not?
2. Is the principal overreacting to Ann's statement? Why or why not?
3. Does Ann's statement establish a basis for dismissal? Why or why not?
4. Can Ann make the case that her statement was a private statement that does not give rise to serious disciplinary action? Why or why not?
5. As principal, would you have made a similar recommendation for dismissal? Why or why not?
6. How do you feel the court would rule in this case? Provide a rationale for your response.
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Carl
ReplyDelete1. Yes. Watts is justified because Griffin’s statement has a negative impact on the harmony and confidence among coworkers.
ReplyDelete2. I don’t believe he is because it would be doubtful for a teacher to remain impartial and exercise compassion for students who are different than herself.
3. Yes, Griffin’s statements has gone against four of the five guidelines established by a Connecticut court in the case of Pickering involving free speech:
•The impact on harmony and confidence among coworkers
•The place where the speech occurred
•The impact on staff and students
•The teachers lack of professionalism
4. No, her statement may have been a personal belief but the statement created disruption of a material and substantial nature which affected the efficient operation of the school.
5.Yes, I don’t feel that a person that holds overt racist views can suppress their private thoughts and emotions in the enlightenment of young minds and spirits.
6. I feel the court would rule in favor of Watts because Griffins statements do not fall within the afore mentioned guidelines. Also Griffin has displayed contempt and insubordination toward her supervisors.
I agree with Carl on his comments. Individuals that carry that kind of prejudices do not belong in any educational facility. Although we all have personal beliefs it is important for our personal beliefs to stay just that "personal". Once the mistake has been made to share a personal belief, then that person needs to take responsibility for the consequences. I would have taken the same action against her for her remarks because of the disruption that occurred and the detrimental consequences that may occur if she is kept on the educational staff. I believe that the court would rule in the favor of Mr. Watts.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both Carl and Laura on this issue. The teachers comments are going to have a negative impact on the staff, students, parents, and the entire school community. The pricipal has the right and the obligation to dismiss her with concerns that she would not treat her students fairly. I would have made the same decision as Mr. Watts and I believe the cours would rule in favor of him.
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