In Hillsborough County, Florida, a middle school teacher has reportedly been removed from her position following the circulation of a video that allegedly shows her hanging a Black baby doll in her classroom. This development was reported by WTSP-TV, a CBS affiliate.
The video, reportedly captured by a 14-year-old student at Barrington Middle School in Lithia, depicts the teacher, identified as 63-year-old Karen Savage, apparently suspending the doll from a cable linked to a classroom television.
Nina Williams, the mother of the student who recorded the video, shared it on social media earlier this week. The post has since garnered over a million views on Facebook.
Williams’ post described the incident in detail: “His art teacher took the time to wrap a charger cord around a Black baby doll’s neck and hang it directly over the classroom television for the entire room to see…” She added that when students questioned the act, the teacher dismissed it with laughter, claiming it was done “to get their attention.”
Williams expressed outrage, describing the act as simulating a “lynching in the classroom.” The video has sparked widespread criticism, with many calling for the teacher’s dismissal. However, some commenters have suggested that the situation might have been misinterpreted.
Williams claimed that the incident simulated a “lynching in the classroom,” with many commenters arguing that the teacher should be fired. Other comments posited that the incident may have been taken out of context, however.
Regardless, WTSP reported on Tuesday that Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Van Ayres condemned the incident and confirmed the teacher involved had been removed from campus as the district investigates.
In addition, WTSP received the following statement from the district:
“Ms. Savage’s employment has been terminated, effective immediately, and the incident has been reported to the Florida Department of Education’s Office of Professional Practice Services for any action regarding her teaching certificate.
We want to reiterate that we do not tolerate conduct of this nature. We took immediate action and responded swiftly to ensure the situation was handled appropriately.
Our school counselors and administrators will continue to be available to meet with any students at Barrington Middle School who have concerns or need additional support.”
Hillsborough County Public Schools
