A teacher in Colorado has been terminated following an investigation into allegations that she encouraged students to kiss classmates during classroom skits. The Denver Public Schools board voted unanimously on May 20 to dismiss Jennifer Honka, a French language and culture teacher at Northeast Early College, citing 'incompetence and neglect of duty.' An independent review indicated that students felt pressured to participate in these skits, which were part of their performance grades.
The review, conducted on April 30, found that the students involved were predominantly of the same sex and that some students reported feeling uncomfortable with the activities. One student mentioned that Honka had a classroom rule stating, 'the answer is always yes,' which was interpreted as encouragement to participate in the skits. The skits, titled 'The Neighbors Saw Everything' and 'The Boring Kiss,' involved scenarios where kissing was part of the performance.
Honka's actions were reported by students, leading to a police report filed by the school's principal, Jennifer Warren. During the investigation, Honka claimed that she did not force students to kiss and offered alternatives for those who were uncomfortable. However, the independent review concluded that the manner in which the skits were conducted was inappropriate and did not prioritize the students' comfort.
Scott Pribble, the director of external communications for Denver Public Schools, emphasized the district's commitment to student safety and well-being, stating that the actions taken were in the best interest of the students. The district acknowledged the courage of the students who reported the incidents.