Massachusetts Teacher Placed on Leave After Mock Slave Auction and Racial Slur

The educator's actions during a fifth-grade history lesson have led to an investigation and calls for improved cultural competency in schools.

The teacher conducted a mock slave auction involving two children of color during a lesson on Southern colonies.
The same teacher used a racial slur while reading from a book that did not contain the offensive term.
The incidents have prompted the school district to launch an investigation and place the teacher on paid leave.
The school's principal was also placed on a 10-day administrative leave following the incidents.
Superintendent Gregory Martineau has apologized and pledged reforms, including staff training on culturally competent teaching methods.