Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

Ashley McConnell
September 21, 2014
EDU-210-1003
Portfolio Artifact#2

Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

Abstract

While writing this paper I will take a look at Ann Griffin. Ann Griffin, is a white tenured
teacher that taught at an predominantly black school. During a heated conversation with
her two African - American administrators, Griffin claimed she hated all black folks.
The purpose of this paper is to present both sides if an argument, pertaining to this
case. The argument being, was Griffin wrong in sharing her personal views, opinions
and feelings. Also with this outburst does it compromise her judgement and
competency? On the other side of the argument, is this nothing more than Griffins first
amendment right to use freedom of speech. In this paper, I will give my view from both
sides. Lastly, I will touch on how I feel the court will role this case.

Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

Jendra Loeffelman taught eighth-grade english at Crystal City Elementary school.

When a student asked her view on interracial relationships, Ms. Loeffelman responded
that she opposed them . She added that interracial couples should be fixed so they
cannot have children, who are racially confused. Her class included biracial students.
The school board concluded that it had the authority to terminate her contract on the
grounds that she had willfully violated board policy by engaging in discriminatory
conduct and making disparaging racial comments. Ms. Loeffelman filed suit, alleging,
that the school board violated her free speech rights by terminating her for speaking on
a matter of public concern(Underwood and Webb,2003,p.58-59).
The quoted paragraph above is a great example of an argument of freedom of speech.
Jendra Loeffelman believed she had every right to speak her mind to her students. Even
if her views can be hateful to others. Like Loeffelman, Ann Griffin also expressed her
racial views in the school setting. When it comes to the argument if Griffin has every
right to speak freely or not , one must first examine the first amendment.

Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

The first amendment of the constitution states, Congress shall make no law respecting
an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the
freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble,
and to petition the government for redress of grievances,(USConstitution.net.nd).With
that being said, Griffins comment was handled the correct way according to the law.
Griffins comment was some-what of a racist comment. With Griffin working as a white
teacher at an all black school, that comment easily effects the kids in her classroom.
Which could eventually create a hostile environment. Not to be on the dramatic side, but
a lot of minority schools have troubled students. These students could begin to feel
uncomfortable with Griffin as their teacher. Griffin could possibly put herself in danger ;
due to a student feeling upset with the fact that she is still in the classroom.
I believe Griffin truly felt she could speak her mind without any repercussions. Reason
being she was a tenure teacher. Many tenure teachers become over comfortable in their
positions. Tenures often feel the rules slowly no longer apply to them. As for the
opposing argument, Griffin had the right to say what was on her mind.
When hearing this case many peoples first reaction might be, freedom of speech. One
might say this is american and teacher or not; she has the right to her opinion and
feelings. One might also argue if Griffin was a true racist why would she teach at that
school? Griffin was merely frustrated in the heat of the moment.
When it comes to how the courts will handle this case; I think Griffin will be terminated
for good.She might have the right to freedom of speech but her comments will effect the
students in her classroom. Not just the students but also her administrators need to be
considered.These two african american administrators were disrespected by her lack of
professionalism. Along with the uncomfortable racist jab that Griffin took at them. When
it is all said and done Griffin was better off keeping her comments to herself.

Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

References

Portfolio#2: Teachers Rights and Responsibilities

1. U.S. Constitution- Amendment-1-The U.S. constitution online-USConstitution.net.

(n.d).retrieved September 15,2014.
2. Underwood,J., & Webb, L.(2006). Teachers Rights. In School Law for Teachers:
Concepts and Applications.Upper Saddle River, N.J: Pearson/Merrill Prentice Hall.