Two years ago Cedarcrest Middle School suspended students for dousing themselves with cologne before entering the classroom of a teacher who had been diagnosed with a severe allergic reaction to scented products. Accommodations were made for the disability by the district and school which worked for past two years.
The disability is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Symptoms are chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pains, short-term memory loss, headaches and other respiratory and neurological problems.
This year, the district and school have reversed their support. They are making it impossible for this teacher to be in a healthy, safe classroom.
How? The district failed to inform families of the teacher’s disability and accommodations in a timely manner. At least 29 families did not receive the letter prior to the first day of class.
Due to policy change, the teacher must leave the classroom if a student wears a scented product. Previously, the student left, removed the product and returned. Now staff members must cover her class until a substitute teacher is hired. The education of 90 students is disrupted instead of one.
The continued negative actions against the teacher are disrupting the educational process and endangering the health of an outstanding teacher and drama coach with 29 years of experience.
The district should honor the disability, provide for a safe environment and educate the students by putting their energy and staff time toward a more positive educational direction.
Marysville
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
