A Bradwell Institute STAR teacher placed on administrative leave will return to work after spring break. BI literature teacher Marilyn Hampton confirmed she will be back at work Monday.
Hampton was reportedly asked to resign by Liberty County School System Superintendent Dr. Franklin Perry the week of March 19.
Perry and LCSS Director of Maintenance and Operations Jason Rogers said the district won’t comment because it is a personnel matter.
The Courier learned of the suspension through a Bradwell student, who said Hampton was asked to resign after telling her students about a book entitled “The Hate U Give.”
The student, whose identity is being withheld by the Courier, said many BI students have signed a petition asking for her to remain. A copy of the petition showed more than 150 signatures.
According to online reviews, “The Hate U Give,” a New York Times youth best-seller written by Angie Thomas, is about racism and police violence and was inspired by the Black Lives Movement.
According to the Bradwell student, the book focuses on issues facing children today.
“Mrs. Hampton is the epitome of what it means to be a quality teacher,” the student wrote in his email. “She strives every day to make sure her students are ready for college and the workforce.”
Hampton said she was never told why they school system wanted her to resign.
“I never received any official statement in writing but was told I am too opinionated,” she said.
STAR teachers are chosen each year by the STAR student at each high school.
Those students post the highest SAT scores at their schools and rank among the top 10 percent or top 10 student in their classes.