Teacher battling an illness sent home after inappropriate act

A James Dukes Elementary teacher was released early from school Thursday after an incident during recess.

Superintendent Robert Graeff said the primary grade teacher who is battling an illness removed her pants in the classroom and wandered outside. The campus supervisor and a teacher in the classroom next door witnessed her “and quietly and professionally escorted the teacher back into the classroom,” said Graeff.

Some students witnessed the incident, he said.

James Dukes.DSC_1805.WEBfeatureThe principal was called and school officials sought medical attention from Ramona paramedics, said Graeff. Once paramedics examined her, she was released for the day. She was not in class Friday.

“We’re working with medical professionals to address the illness condition,” said Graeff. “Once that’s resolved, we will take the next step, which very likely will be (she will) return to work. She will not be in on Monday.”

Graeff explained he is unable to say more because employees have rights.

“Her illness motivated her to do something inappropriate,” said Graeff, noting she took off her pants but was never naked.

“This was not a flasher,” he said. “There’s no crime.”

Primary grades are kindergarten through third grade.