Jacksonville mom says teacher called group of black students rats

Action News Jax Investigates claims that a teacher made racist remarks to fourth-graders at Carter G. Woodson Elementary School.

Tiera Ross said it started when her daughter and a group of girls were trying to get back into class last Tuesday, but the door was locked.

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“[My daughter] said they were knocking on the door,” Ross said.  “The teacher told the classroom ‘Don't let the rats back in the class to infest the class.”

Ross’ daughter said the teacher didn’t stop there.

“(The teacher said), 'They're only going to amount to be a bunch of ratchet Walmart workers,’ and ‘That's why their race is either dead or in jail,'” Ross said. “So then I was kind of outraged about the comments that were made.”

The teacher in question is white, and according to Ross’ daughter, she was speaking to a group of black students.

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Action News Jax took the accusations directly to Duval County Public Schools, which confirmed the incident is under review.

In an email, a representative stated, “No teacher has been removed from the classroom at this time. Next steps regarding an investigation and/or possible discipline will occur after the initial review is complete to determine if there is enough evidence for further action.”

Ross wants the teacher gone.

“I'm so infuriated inside that I want to cry, but I'm not,” Ross said.  “I'm going to be strong enough for my daughter to make sure that the situation is taken care of.”

Cox Media Group