TACOMA — The Richland School District has removed a substitute teacher from its pool after being notified of behavior that was “inconsistent with district policy.”
“The district takes this matter seriously and immediately launched an investigation. This matter has been addressed in accordance with our policies. The substitute teacher will not be returning to the Richland School District,” staff said in a Thursday letter to parents.
It’s unclear what behavior precipitated the sub’s removal, as well as if they were subject to any other disciplinary measures.
The district is not naming them and has declined to talk more about the allegations that the substitute made Nazi salutes. It’s unclear how long they worked for the district as a substitute.
“Richland School District is committed to maintaining a learning environment where all students feel safe, valued and respected,” the district’s letter read. “We maintain dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive community for all students.”
A community member who posted online alleged the substitute “threw the Nazi salute three times” during a Richland High School college prep period and claimed their descendants fought for the fascist party in World War II.
Nazism was a German socialist movement in the mid 20th century that came to power under the leadership of Adolf Hitler. Under the “Third Reich,” Nazi Germany coordinated the largest genocide of the century, systematically killing more than six million Jewish people and millions of other Europeans.
Modern Neo-Nazi hate groups carry on the party’s views of antisemitism today in the U.S. through Active Clubs and White Lives Matter networks.
School district staff investigating the incident spoke to multiple students to verify the claims, the community member said in the post.
Families, students and staff can make anonymous tips via test message, email or phone call for any incidents involving cyberbullying, harassment, threats, weapons, drugs, mental health or domestic issues.
That tip line is 509-392-4668 or online at rsd-wa.safeschoolalert.com.
A Richland Police Department spokesperson says their agency wasn’t contacted about the incident and they have not investigated the claim.
