Harlem teacher on leave over ‘inappropriate statements’

HARLEM, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Parents were notified Friday of an ongoing investigation of allegations that a teacher made “inappropriate statements” during a Harlem High School health care science class.

The teacher is on administrative leave pending further investigation by the Columbia County School District.

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Parents of students in the teacher’s class have been notified directly of the incident, according to the district.

“Please rest assured that safety of students and staff remains a top priority. Harlem High and the Columbia County School District expects the highest level of professionalism from all of our educators,” the district said Friday in a note to parents that was released to the media. “Allegations such as these are taken extremely seriously and will be investigated fully.”

Even though it impacted a “select number” of students, district officials said they felt it was necessary to notify all parents.