A fourth grade teacher at Camino Real Elementary has been placed on administrative leave by the Hays CISD pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations of misconduct in the classroom.
The district said on Monday that Kathryn Willey, who has been a teacher with the district since 2013, will not be returning this semester. Principal Yvette Soliz told parents a different teacher will be assigned to Willey’s classroom regardless of the outcome of the investigation into Willey’s alleged actions.
A student in the class came forward to report what is being described use of “demeaning language” and a “belligerant tone” in class with students. The student had an audio recording of the remarks, the district said in a press release.
District officials said they received a complaint during the fall semester that Willey inappropriately compared a student to “a bump on a log.” “If found to be an accurate representation of what has occurred in her classroom, the new audio recordings show a much more significant level of unacceptable language and tone,” the district said.
Soliz sent two communications to parents concerning the situation. The first, on Feb. 20, said an investigation had been launched. “School and district leaders are aware of the report and will provide guidance on any next steps necessary,” she wrote. “I am proud that a student in the classroom was brave enough to come forward.”
