Teacher fired for claiming students had ‘dark tan’ skin tones

A Florida high school teacher has been fired after making a controversial comparison between his students’ skin color and coffee roasting. Cary Altschuler, professor of advanced statistics, caused the scandal by placing the images of three students labeled ‘extra crema’, ‘medium roast’ and ‘dark roast’. The case quickly went viral on social media and reached school authorities.

The Palm Beach County School Board, on the recommendation of the district superintendent, last week confirmed Altschuler’s dismissal. Dr. Elena Villani, Principal of Lake Worth High School, called the content presented by the teacher ‘extremely inappropriate’according to statements collected by local media.

He was considered racist

Villani pointed out that Altschuler’s actions have no place in the school environment or elsewhere, calling them “racial.” In an interview, Altschuler admitted he made a big mistake trying to use humor with his students.

The origin of the incident dates back to a teasing exchange between two students about their complexion. Altschuler, speaking suggested that if they were going to make a fool of themselves, ‘get creative’, which he admitted was an act of ‘stupidity’ on their part. During the district’s investigation, it was discovered that two of the photos used were of students from his current class and one of a student from his previous class.

Your departure will be valid within one month

The district ruled that Altschuler violated a number of policies, including ethical misconduct, inappropriate comments toward students, and failure to follow pre-established policies. The dismissal of the professor will be effective as of August 25. Altschuler has stayed away from the students for the past few months, as the event reportedly happened in early January, but his “punishment” was only recently determined.

Altschuler began teaching at Lake Worth High in August 2020 and while working at the school he was the head coach of women’s flag football and part of the men’s team coaching staff.