Local teacher allegedly posts profane; racially-charged message on Google Classroom

Yuma Elementary School District One is investigating an eighth grade science teacher who allegedly posted a profane and racially-charged post on her Google Classroom online bulletin board. The post was seen by students, parents, and other teachers.

The post read, “F— you fourth avenue. im done with the bulls—t. F— you kids. you f—-ing beaners.”

Multiple Fourth Avenue Jr. High School students and relatives have reached out to News 11, sharing screenshots of the message, which appears to have been posted Thursday, February 2, just after 12:30 p.m. by Tonya Sissel.

“We just felt really hurt that she said that,” shares eighth grader Serena Esperanza, who says her mom withdrew her from the school after Thursday’s incident. She will be enrolling at another local junior high school this week.

News 11 has reached out to Fourth Avenue Jr. High School Principal Jose Cazares who has confirmed that the post was published Thursday and that the school is “following district protocol”.

Yuma Elementary School District One has confirmed that it is currently conducting an investigation regarding the incident and shared this statement with News 11:

“Yuma School District One became aware of an inappropriate comment posted on February 2, 2017. The District is in the process of investigating the origin of this comment. We will follow district policies and procedures to ensure due process throughout the investigation, and continue to work with parents and students in maintaining their educational progress. Our District’s priority is to always ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students and staff.”

It is currently unclear whether the teacher actually posted this message or if her account was hacked. We have reached out to and left messages for Tonya Sissel but have yet to hear back from her.

This is a developing story.