Statement by Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers

WASHINGTON—No facts or circumstances can justify the actions of a Central Falls High School teacher who hung a doll of President Obama upside down in his classroom as part of what he described as a lesson plan. The teacher’s actions were wrong and unacceptable.

The teacher has apologized to all his students, and understands that his actions affect not just them but all of us. As teachers, we hold ourselves to a high standard, and must do everything possible to promote respect and fight bigotry.