Listen Live
Fantastic Voyage Generic Graphics Updated Nov 2023
Black America Web Featured Video
CLOSE

A Michigan band teacher is on paid administrative leave because he reportedly duct-taped a student’s ankles to a chair.

The Monroe News reports:

The Jefferson High School band teacher has been placed on paid administrative leave after he reportedly duct-taped a student’s ankles to her chair to enhance proper posture that is required when playing instruments.

Parents have identified the teacher as Brian Sullivan, and several students have been petitioning the school to return him to the classroom in time for the band’s trip to Florida next month.

“If it was my daughter, I’d be upset, of course,” said Debbie Barron, a band booster whose daughter is in Mr. Sullivan’s band class. “You just can’t do that kind of stuff to kids anymore. But I don’t think he should lose his job.”

Jefferson Schools Supt. Craig A. Haugen said he received a complaint against a teacher for “reported corrective measures in the classroom.”

Mr. Haugen, who did not identify the teacher, said he was placed on paid administrative leave as the district continues its investigation.

“The district is in the process of collecting information regarding the details to resolve the issue in a timely manner,” Mr. Haugen said in a statement. “The teacher is on paid administrative leave and may not have contact with any students in any manner or be on Jefferson Schools’ property.”

Mrs. Barron said the problem with suspending Mr. Sullivan for an extended time could jeopardize the band’s trip to Florida where members are planning to perform at Disney World. They are scheduled to leave April 9.

It was this week during class that the duct tape incident occurred. Mrs. Barron said Mr. Sullivan stresses proper posture in order for students to perform well. That means their feet must be flat on the floor and students must sit up straight.

One girl apparently would not keep her feet flat on the floor, so Mr. Sullivan reportedly duct taped each ankle to her chair for emphasis. Mrs. Barron said the girl was wearing jeans and boots at the time. The girl apparently was upset over the incident and a student notified school officials, Mrs. Barron said.

You tell us, good teacher or bad teacher?

Like BlackAmericaWeb.com on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter.

(Photo Source: