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Inappropriate book allegedly read in Wrens Middle School classroom

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Posted: 10:14 PM Aug 21, 2008
Last Updated: 5:58 PM Aug 22, 2008
Reporter: Melissa Tune
Email Address: melissa.tune@wrdw.com

105 comments

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News 12 at 11 o'clock, August 14, 2008

AUGUSTA, Ga. --- A Jefferson County mother says she's not keeping quiet about a controversial book read in class by a middle school teacher.

Cynthia Betancourt says the book in question is not part of any reading list, but a personal book belonging to a teacher. Betancourt says some of the passages read were inappropriate for an 8th grade class and says she won't stop until this teacher is no longer teaching.

The book allegedly read by a male teachers at Wrens Middle School is called "Be Afraid, Very Afraid." The book is filled with urban legends. Skimming through the book, there are a number of sexual references. Betancourt's daughter is a student in the teacher's class.

Betancourt says the book is unsuitable for Eighth graders and risque even for adults. She has even started a petition to remove the unnamed teacher from the classroom completely.

We contacted the School Superintendent in Jefferson County to get their side of the story but they did not return calls to News 12.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: You Dont need to Know Location: youll never guess {Just East Of nowhere] Or maybe your front lawn on Nov 6, 2008 at 04:26 PM
Wha the big fuss im not shocked i mean cmon there are people in the (9th And 8th grades who read books about constant nasty sex if that teacher needs to be kicked out so doo thousands of 13 and 14 yearolds across the nation Also Did the teacer have Knowledge of th dirtyness {bet A septillon dollars it was not tha bad i mean cmon "sexual references " that could be any thing Ex he gave it to her /he came around 10:00 imean really} If you ask me the lady probale was mad cuz none of the stuff in the book EVER happened to her {can You SAy Artificial Insemination] [Realy can you say it]{i cant]

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wrens,Ga. on Sep 12, 2008 at 09:06 PM
I'm at parent of a child at Wrens Middle and,I'm behind the mother 4,000%.I hope he gets put out of our school systems.Maybe this man should read this book before the board and then read it in church on sunday.Maybe him and his wife can't read this book to his own son.You stupid *** Jefferson County people need to wake the **** up and smell the coffee.I bet everyone that's on Mr.Mac's side is as cross minded and stupid as he is.Let's all go to church with Mr.Mac and let's praise all those demons that he's praising.Oh yeah and we would like to know what his pastor thinks about all of this...?p.s. [offensive content removed] this way he want have to read this nasty **** to 8th grade children!!!!!!

Posted by: GRAMMA Location: TENNILLE on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:04 AM
HAVING SUBSTITUTED A NUMBER OF YEARS WITH MIDDLE GRADERS, I KNOW THIS POPULATION HAS A FAR GREATER UNSUITABLE VOCABULARY THAN ANY BOOK IN PRINT. SHE PROBABLY USES ALL THIS LANGUAGE PLUS MORE WITH HER DAUGHTER, AT HOME.

Posted by: Student Location: Wrens on Sep 1, 2008 at 11:37 AM
I think that Mr. Mac should come back I wasn't in the class room at the time it was read... I had left to go do something for Mr.Mac... I have heard this story from my friends... and I have a feeling that some people are going to get really mad at the girl who told... and this might start a fight.. I LOVE Mr. Mac and would never want him to get fired.

Posted by: mike Location: california on Aug 31, 2008 at 05:21 PM
Leave teachers the **** alone. they're obviously more integral in this child's life than her fascist moron mother who invents reasons to be offended. this is America, you stupid, overprotected ********.

Posted by: Anon Location: Internet on Aug 31, 2008 at 12:20 PM
People wonder why the education system is in the tank then they get up in arms over something as harmless as a ****** book, the teachers need to keep kids interested in class and that guy was doing his duty of teaching English, as in reading books. How would that book even be the slightest bit risque for adults? What does it mention the hook myth will the kids making out in a car? I mean it's 8th grade; if your kid doesn't know about sex by then you're an idiot and they are gonna get pregnant cause you can't stand to inform them.

Posted by: wrens citizan Location: wrens on Aug 30, 2008 at 09:40 AM
my name is betty and i beleave that this parent is right and her daughter to the teacher is wrong and should no longer have the right to teach in our school ."PEOPLE LISTEN THERE WILL BE A MEETING HELD BY MR JAMES IVERY PRESIDENT OF THE S.C.L.C WITH THE NEWS INVOLVED AND I WILL BE THERE TO SAPPORT THE MOTHER 150% IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO CONTACT MR JAMES HES NUMBER IS 706-631-2980 CELL AND OFFICE NUMBER 706-925-0224 OR AT JEFFCOGACSCLC.COM OR AT JEFFCOGASCLC@HOTMAIL.COM THIS TEACHER WILL NOT CONTINUE TO TEACH.MR JAMES WILL MAKE SURE OF THAT hey i have a ? for everyone being that this county is so rasist is everyone mad becouse this woman is know to be hispanic get over it everyone iam a white woman and i know what she did was the right thing to do and as for children keep ur nose in the books and stop tring to be so **** grown have of you probably can even explain nothing about history and have of u cant even spell right shows what u have learned in mr mackniers class dont give up mom.....

Posted by: louisville parent Location: louisville ga on Aug 30, 2008 at 09:28 AM
my name is casandra and i live in louisville yes i put my name becouse i beleave that this parent did the right thing aswell as her daughter they have the right to speak up i also know that jefferson county police department and people are very very dishonest people to there are people selling drugs and guess what they dont arrest them becouse they have grown up with this people so they over look it its a shame on how corrupt our county is and how everyone wants to cover up this teachers sin mrs betancourt you did the right thing and jasmine u 2 did the right thing shows how corrupt the parents of jefferson county are aswell . lol so they say that he mr macknier is a christian man please this man needs them demonds to be tooken out of him macnier get right with god please if you need help my chruch is open to people like you jeffrerson county wake up stop being so corrupt and do whats right for once in ur lives stop being so shaddy and scared do what right and lets stop the evilness ..

Posted by: wrens parent Location: wrens on Aug 30, 2008 at 09:18 AM
well iam a wrens parent and live in wrens ita a shame that our parents in wrens and adults in wrens will try to protect a nasty pervert like mr macknier yes hes a nasty man christian my ******* *** this man is sick in the head he will not get away with this beleave me i stand 2000% behind this parent who had the heart to stand up to this stupid county that is afraid of talking out and standing proud heads up to you mrs. betancourt iam on your side maybe mr macknier like women and men lol and as for mrs betancouts daughter jasmine keep your head up and remember mom if the students at wms try to hurt her u can press charges on the parents aswell if the precapial and teachers treat her wrong get a lawyer bec ouse your daughters civil rights have been taken from her and you and as for the BOE Mr Batthuen go back to your county where you belong your taking jefferson's county money and investing it in the county where u live remember your not even sapposed to be in the BOE of jefferson c

Posted by: disgusted teacher Location: GA on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:04 PM
I support Mr. Mac 110%. The board of education & Julia Wells are allowing one of their finest educators to be punished unnecessarily. They should stand up for a beloved, well-educated, professional such as Vince. He changed careers, went to school to get certified, & then went back for a masters and specialist's degrees. He has always been dedicated to bettering his teaching abilities. I am not surprised that the principal & the board are not standing behind Mr. Mac. They have a proven track record of throwing their best & brightest to the wolves. When children & parents allege wrongdoing no effort is made to learn the truth. Instead, the county's unwritten policy is to side with parents & not stand up for teachers. That is why many teachers begin their careers at JCBOE & quickly rush off to other assignments. I personally know of several incidents in which Julia took the word of her friends, cronies, and a niece (N.N.) over that of her teachers. I hope Vince sues & wins!

Posted by: Lynn Location: Wrens on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:41 PM
As a parent with a child at WMS, I was looking forward to the day when my son would have Mr. Mac as a teacher. However it seems that this will no longer happen. I am extremely upset that the BOE would allow one of their finest teachers to be thrown to the wolves and try to sweep this matter under the carpet. It seems that the BOE is bowing down to the pressure put upon them by so called rights organizations instead of standing up and supporting a highly beloved teacher. Mr. Mac is a great asset to the Jefferson County education system and will be missed if he decides to leave. I am proud to say that I support Mr. Mac 100 percent and wish him luck in whatever he decides.

Posted by: Advice for the Angry Blogger Location: Hopefully no where near this person on Aug 28, 2008 at 10:20 PM
Bottom Line Blogger you really should take your own advice. This is a blog not a love letter so you don't have to P.S. - Your all caps makes you look really angry. You might want to talk with someone about that. I thought you might like to know since your blog looks so, well, tacky. Insulting kids- they'll have a blog about you next- BOTTOM LINE: YOU CANNOT AND WILL NOT INSULT KIDS ON BLOGS! Grow up!

Posted by: jefferson co teacher on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:11 PM
Columbia County Educator... Have you SERIOUSLY lost your mind? Are you trying to compare the economically disadvantaged students in Jefferson County to Columbia County? Have you seen our schools???? We don't have nice new schools, or students with silver spoons in their mouths. What we do have are fine teachers and students whom I am proud to call my friend and neighbors. I am not defending this teacher, but Columbia County didn't set any woods on fire with their scores! Louisville Middle's 8th grade math scores were the BEST in the CSRA but I bet their teachers aren't on this blog blaming your inferior scores on your teachers reading sex material in class! GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF! You said 70% passed the 8th grade Social studies test. Well, I would think with all the advantages Columbia County affords you, you should be beating Jefferson County by more than 10 or 15 points!

Posted by: Georgia Educator on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:50 PM
When will the media tell how many students and parents and educators have stood up for this man rather than publishing the spoken word of one parent who wasn't even in the classroom. Where is this parent from? What is her history? Does she do this everywhere she goes? The media wants to sell the ugly- how about doing some background on the mother and the teacher and publish that. You won't because you'd see the teacher shine and the parent's true colors shown.

Posted by: Lizzie Location: Jefferson County on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:41 PM
Columbia County Educator you should talk what you know. First of all you know nothing about the fine character of this man. If you are indeed an educator you might want to point that hippocritical finger back at yourself. All you know is what the glorified tale brought to us by the media. You should know there are some parents who are looking for anything to gripe about. I challenge you to post your name so we can pull up your test scores and see what type of educator you truly are. May God never let some parent take something out of context and try to destroy you as you and this parent are trying to do to him. We love you Mr. Mac. I thank God that you were one of the finest teachers my child ever had. Let these who want to cast stones to go ahead. God will reward you for what we in Jefferson County know you are- a true, God sent educator who loves children. Anyone can make a mistake, but those who want to judge by the fruit- the students who love and adore you are your fruit

Posted by: columbia county educator Location: columbia county on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:43 PM
Student performance certainly indicates the focus of the teacher. Looking at the 2008 spring CRCT results on the Georgia Board Education website might give the administrators in Jefferson county insight about this teacher's focus. Wrens Middle School 8th grade students had a 45.8% fail rate for Social Studies which is the subject this teacher is responsible for. Other 8th grade scores were: Reading 11% fail, ELA 12% fail, Math 37% fail, Science 18% fail. Columbia County middle schools had an average 30% fail rate for Social Studies. Maybe this teacher could spend more time on interesting social studies facts rather than non-approved sex material. The character of the mother of the child is irrelevant. It is the character of and poor judgment of this teacher that matters. All parents can access the CRCT results as well as AYP and other standards by school at the Georgia Board of Education Web site.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wadley on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:04 AM
Keep up the good work mom. Only you know what is best for your child.I stand behind you 100%

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wadley on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:08 AM
Everyone needs to open there eyes.Like all of you have said everybody makes mistakes.Why are you all downing the mother all she is doing is trying to help not only her child but all of ours.Like you said they will hear about this one day but a teacher talking about men haveing sex with another man come on now they don't need to be learning about this in our public schools.I think what this lady is doing is great.I don't live in wrens but I would be more then happy to sign.Thanks Mom!!!!

Posted by: Bottom Line Location: Louisville, Ga on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:14 PM
Bottom Line: You CANNOT and WILL NOT be allowed to read ANYTHING in ANY CLASS in Jefferson County that is not APPROVED by the JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION FIRST! PS: Please, former and current WMS students, don't write comments if you cannot spell correctly or use proper grammar. It REALLY makes you look ignorant, uneducated and does NOT help the teacher's case at all! History = Urban Legends? I think not

Posted by: Insulted Location: Wrens on Aug 25, 2008 at 05:04 PM
Speak for yourself!!! You may think that we is a saint.......I know otherwise. If your grammar and writing skills are indicative of the kind of teacher he is...then I see why he read that book. He just didn't know any better!!! Remember we can say what we want; however, God knows the real story and so does that fine Christian, Mr. Mac!!

Posted by: A Former Student! Location: Wrens,GA on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:44 PM
Omg! I cant believe this. Mr Mac is a very good teacher i had him in 8th grade also and he was the best teacher in that school. That book he read was the highlight of our day and he did skip over the cussing and explict parts.I mean most of the time we asked him to read it. Oh and believe me 8th graders kno more than theses parents think and not just from school from tv, internet and other kids. Like that caitlyn girl that commented sayin she saw 9000 orgies please there isnt 9000 ppl in that school and how does she know about orgies. My point exactly. I was a student of his about 6yrs ago and he was reading the book then and no one til this imature mother and daughter has thought is was a big deal. Plus Mr Mac wouldnt try to offend anyone hes a good person. He doesnt deserve to be fired bc of someone elses insercurities. But not only has that mother hurt a innocent man but she also just hurt her own daughters reputation and she has many yrs to go. Ha Good luck! We Love Mr Mac!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: JEFFERSON COUNTY on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:35 PM
I THINK CYNTHIA BETANCOURT JUST WANTED TO BE ON TV BECAUSE WHO CALLED NEWS 12 ABOUT THIS STORY IT'S NOT LIKE THIS JUST HAPPEN FRIDAY. I DONT KNOW THIS TEACHER BUT IF ANY PARENT THINK THAT AT AGE 13 THIER CHILD DOESNOT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT SEX THEN THEY ARE SADLY MISTAKEN THEY MORE THEN LIKELY KNOW MORE THEN THEY KNOW. MOST PARENTS HAVE NO IDEAL WHAT THIER CHILD IS READING IN SCHOOL OR OUT OF SCHOOL. THIS MOTHER NEEDS TO BE CONCERN ABOUT HOW HER CHILD WILL BE TREATED AT SCHOOL NOW BECAUSE KIDS ARE MEAN AND IF SHE THINK THAT THE KIDS ARE NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS OUT ON HER SHE WRONG. SO I THINK IF SHE WAS A CONCERNED PARENT THEN SHE SHOULD HAVE LET HER 13 YEAR OLD CHILD ON TV FOR EVERYONE IN THE CSRA TO SEE.

Posted by: AFORMER STUDENT OF Mr.Macs! Location: WRENS,GA on Aug 25, 2008 at 12:49 PM
That woman is just wanting some **** attention she doesnt have anything better to do. I was a student of mr.macs about 5 or 6 yrs ago and he is a very respectful man and the best teacher in that hell hole. Im pretty sure her daughter is having sex just like the rest of the kids up there that wasnt told about abstinence. 8th graders are well aware of sex and everything that goes with it. Just look at the girl's comment katilyn on here talkin about orgees i guess he told her about that to. haha Theres not even 9000 ppl in that school *******. Yall need to get a life bc karma is a *****. Hes a good person and wouldnt ever try to offend anyone. That mother has not only messed up a innocent mans life but her own daughters bc im pretty sure that girl is gna catch hell from her peers and other ppl that love Mr Mcnair.We love u Mr Mac Stay strong!

Posted by: Home grown Location: Wrens on Aug 25, 2008 at 12:40 PM
I grew up with Mr Mac. I went to school with him my whole life. We were not friends then and we are not friends now. Even though we have always been friendly we know each other very well. But I can attest he is and always has been a good person and teacher. He has taught two of my children and hopefully he will teach the third. I haven't read the book so I don't know if it appropiate or not. But if he thought it was, I will back him because I know his morals and charactor. In this day and time not all, but most of these children have had sex or shortly will. But do we as parents know what our children or watching on tv or saying on my space. Some of you would be shocked to know your children even have an myspace account. But if they have access I can garantee they do. Your children will learn many things at school. But are they learning the right things at home? This is where it matter most. Before you cast stones you should look hard in the mirrow.

Posted by: amie hall Location: wrens, georgia on Aug 25, 2008 at 12:25 PM
I think the kid is so immature!! What 13 year old doesn't know about sex!! Mr. mac is a very nice person.. And no one else is complaining about what he does.. You just want to make a big scene about it for nothing .. GET OVER IT! Mr. mac i support ya!! These kids are ridiculous now of days!

Posted by: ??? Location: Wrens on Aug 25, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Satan's soldier makes a point. Yes, that fine Christian man surely opened to door to Satan and his soldiers. Think of the years that he has been doing this and getting away with it. Now, of course, it is everyone else's fault. He read the book; he has been reading it; he got caught; he needs to man up, admit it and allow the school and community to heal. As long as he hides behind the mask of Christianity and "one mistake", the school and community will have a hard time. Reading the same story and asking if students are "mature" enough to handle it; leaving out or skipping over the "cussing"!!!! It reeks of perversion to me. So congrats Satan's soldier. Looks like Mr. Mac has given you many new disciples.

Posted by: Satan's Soldier Location: Everywhere on Aug 25, 2008 at 05:46 AM
Yes! We've gotten our foot in the door of the Jefferson County school system! Young children NEED to know all about sex. It helps them become the kind of young adults that WE need! WAY TO GO Mr. Mac!!!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Jefferson County on Aug 24, 2008 at 09:33 PM
NO ONE IS PERFECT! People make mistakes every day and we learn from them and life goes on. My child was in this teachers class last year and he was one of her favorites. She loved the stories and never once said to me that they contained explicit material. Please do not fire him Jefferson County BOE. He made one mistake, if that, and he deserves another chance.

Posted by: mb Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 08:23 PM
The Gay Roomate is not the only story the teacher read out of the book "Be Afraid, Very Afraid". The "legends" in this book have placed much fear in many children. Fear that haunts them at night, they can't sleep; afraid to be alone, and afraid to tell their parents. The teacher told them not to tell he was reading these stories because if they did he would be fired. All the stories in this book are inappropriate for children and adults. It is more than inappropirate, it is evil. For any parent or child that loves the Lord Jesus Christ, know that this book is of the enemy.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 07:49 PM
This gentleman was my teacher years ago, and he always made learning fun. He never said or did anything inappropriate, and probably showed more care and concern for his students than most educators. I wasn't there, so I can't say if he read the inappropriate parts or not but I can say that losing him would be a terrible loss to this school system. Children listen to terrible music and watch terrible things on television all the time, in their parent's home so for this lady to go to this extent is ridiculous. I would like to see what they watch, listen to, and even speak themselves in their home.

Posted by: Juan Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 05:37 PM
This is ridiculous. When I was growing up the story, (book in this case) that was banned was "Catcher in the Rye" I would never have read the book had it not been for the uproar. I was sorely disappointed when finished. What a waste of everyone's time. Get a life.

Posted by: rt Location: stapleton on Aug 23, 2008 at 05:26 PM
My child also had this teacher and the other has him now. I am glad to have him as an influence on both my children. I wonder if the parents of children in Wrens schools know what the books in the libraries have in them. When one of my children was in the 3rd grade, an AR book was brought home that talked about wet dreams and a boy looking through a girls window at her silky black panties!!! When I took the book back to the school and asked that it be taken out I had to fill out a bunch of paperwork and go through "proper channels". Guess what happened? The book was allowed to stay because it was found to be appropriate for elementary school children. But a seasoned professional has been suspended and he and his family have to endure all this over something being read that is no worse!!! Mom, have you listened to what is coming out of the mouth of your child lately? Is is it just happening at school when my child has to hear it? Mr. Mc, we love and support you!!!

Posted by: jefferson county Location: jefferson county on Aug 23, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Reading aloud an explicit sexual encounter to a class of 8th graders is inappropriate. Hopefully, the Jefferson BOE will resist the urge to gently reprimand the teacher due to his long teaching history. INAPPROPRIATE IS INAPPROPRIATE. Unfortunately, Jefferson County is a place where the adults have grown up in circles of friends that protect each other no matter what. Therefore, most of the support you are reading is from people who are friends with this teacher and will support his inappropriate behavior. Several children have reported the story in the words used and, yes, what he read was the bad parts. The entire story is BAD and cannot be made appropriate in any way. Unfortunately, he also read the story to a previous class so he knew the content well before hand. Middle schoolers are still very trusting of adults and are often influenced by the teachers for life. May WMS and the BOE lay aside friendship and say this is not allowable in our schools. Make the right ADULT choice.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Augusta on Aug 23, 2008 at 01:12 PM
Katelyn, while you may be an honor student it is apparent that you are an eighth grader by the dramatic response you wrote. Please do not worry. I am sure your county will see to it that you, along with all of your peers, receive another certified and highly qualified teacher so that you will still be able learn the Georgia History state standards this year. I think you are only in your second or third week of school so you have not missed so much instruction that all is lost. Many of you keep making references to the books that will be read in the future, I believe that those books have been approved by the proper channels for years where as Be Afraid Be Very Afraid---The Book of Scary Urban Legends has not been. Katelynn, I am still trying to figure out what this book has to do with the Georgia History curriculum that you are so concerned about not being able to learn now.

Posted by: JC Student Location: Jefferson County on Aug 23, 2008 at 12:44 PM
At what point is it ok when middle school kids can read books in the libraries with exlicit sex and cussing in the text, but if a teacher has one it is considered wrong? There are numerous books in the school with explicit content. If this is such a big deal, why not outlaw every book with vulgar material? This great mans reputation is now ruined. I had this man as an 8th grade teacher 3 years ago. I learned so much and not once did I, or anyone in my classes feel uncomfortable, or hear any bad material. Yes, he made a mistake, but how can you ruin a mans rep because of one mistake. I don't understand. Keep him gone if you want, but Wrens will lose its best middle school teacher.

Posted by: Johnny Location: Jefferson county on Aug 23, 2008 at 12:37 PM
Where is that child's daddy............

Posted by: Jefferson County Parent Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 11:39 AM
I have known this teacher for several years and he has taught many children that I know personally. He is a fantastic teacher and loves what he does. He is the tye of teacher any parent would be proud to have a their childs teacher. To those of you who do live in Jefferson County, do not pass judgement because you do not know him. I know for a fact that this "concerned parent" has several criminal charges pending and uses several different names. She has made false accusations in the past that proved to have no merit. The newspapers and television stations need to check out their information before they spread "news". To all of the parents that are presented with her "petition", please get the facts before you sign your name. Unfornately this is not the first time that a fanatastic teacher has been persecuted unfairly in this county. I hope that the parents will speak up this time and not allow the same thing to happen in this situation.

Posted by: concerned teacher Location: augusta on Aug 23, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Many of these comments from people appear they are asking others to check out the entire story (GS), while they are not checking it out. It seems the teacher read inappropriate material over the last few years to selected classes. I agree with the parent about the students didn't have a say in whether they heard the material or not and it was not a school book. Not a mistake - a chosen decision by the teacher. In all this, what did this story have to do with Georgia History? With the emphasis on test scores, a teacher should not be wasting time reading their personal material to classes that doesn't have anything to do with what he is supposed to be teaching!

Posted by: former student Location: jefferson county on Aug 23, 2008 at 11:29 AM
I was in this teachers class my 8th grade year and he was without question one of my favorite teachers. This book was also read to me when i was in his class and I can assure you that nothing inappropriate was read to this class. He always made it a point to make sure he did not read things that he knew we shouldnt be exposed to. I do not understand how some of the things that are being said could be said about such a wonderful teacher, husband, and father. I think that before all of you judge such a wonderful man you need to make sure your hands are clean. How about the mother of this young girl and the fact that she is putting her through all of this and making it such a big deal? Maybe the mother should be checked out and maybe her background should be evaluated. I bet that this teachers background is alot cleaner than hers ever thought about being. Dont let this teacher go WMS! You wont find another quite like him.

Posted by: He'sagoodman! Location: Augusta on Aug 23, 2008 at 11:01 AM
The teacher is a GOOD christian man. His intent was not as it appears. The mother of this child has a troubled past that the media should look into and expose. I would not hesitate to allow my child (if I had one)into his classroom. This story is not fully explained by WRDW. The mother has been in and out of legal problems for many years - IT IS PUBLIC RECORD -CHECK IT OUT!!! He made a mistake and he has been rightfully punished. Now allow this man to continue his great work in the classroom!

Posted by: JCWARRIOR Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 10:45 AM
I am a Junior at Jefferson County High School. I had this teacher in the 8th grade as well as all of my fellow classmates. I am apauled by the assumptions that have been made about this teacher. There is not one student that has not loved him as a teacher. When i was in the 8th grade i was read stories like this one. He NEVER once said the pervocative parts of the stories. I think its ashame that stuents are having to sit in a classroom and not learn and be given "busy work". I think that Wrens Middle School and the BOE is making a HUGE mistake. Jefferson County should be thankful to this teacher. I learned more out of his class than i ever had out of any class. He was the type of teacher that made you want to learn, and thats what Jefferson County needs the most. & to the parent...i PROMISE you, your child knows more than you think she does about the elidged "subject" of the story that the teacher read. I hope your prepared for whats to come..HIGHSCHOOL! BRING OUR TEACHER BACK!

Posted by: Keep the Teacher Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 09:27 AM
I have a child in the 8th at WMS and I support the teacher. The man's record over the years speaks for itself. Every one of the parents and students I have spoken with have nothing but good things to say about the teacher. Even previous students take time to visit with the man if they see him outside the classroom. I understand Ms. Betancourt is upset and wants to make an example. I encourage the signers of her petition to understand all aspects of his teaching history before they sign. Find out for yourself! I my opinion this is a witch hunt. By looking at the video, Columbia County Library (Euchee Creek) is next; I guess she needs a book burning up there.

Posted by: in Wrens Location: Wrens on Aug 23, 2008 at 07:06 AM
Observer Aug 22, 2008 at 04:48 PM has it exactly right. What purpose did the story have in 8th grad GA History? It is not Sex Ed for GA. I have read the story from the book he read from. I am ready to hear how you clean up gay anal sex/rape, explain to me how you do that? Why would he want to keep it a secret? Who knows what goes on behind any closed door? Undoubtedly, he didn’t want anyone to know what he did behind his closed school door. Why? Children are very gullible, susceptible to influence, and naive at that age. That is how manipulation works. Shhh let’s keep this a secret. Don’t tell or I may get in trouble. Bingo… I remember a Jefferson High School educator a couple years ago that was thought of as a fine Christian, but is no longer teaching or preaching because of inappropriate conduct. Everyone “knew” him too. A fine man and Christian would not read this story in any version unless he received some joy from such obscenity.

Posted by: mary sue Location: wadley on Aug 23, 2008 at 06:31 AM
To the teacher in question....hang in there. If they fire you, you'll probably easily find another job making 5 times what the state of Georgia pays you!! Good luck in whatever the future holds. Some parents are completely absent in the important parts of their children's lives and then take the opportunity to nut up on a teacher to make themselves feel like they are good parents. I've seen it a thousand times. This too shall pass. Psalm 93: 2&3; 9-16 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence....Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.Thou shalt tread upon the lion!"

Posted by: Caitlin Location: Louisville on Aug 23, 2008 at 01:47 AM
I am a student at WMS. I wasn't in the class when the story was read, but I can tell you, this event disrupted the whole school. After he read the book, all my friends starting talking about sex in the hall ways, and running around with their genitals exposed. I saw over 9000 orgies going on in the girl's bathrooms! This teacher needs to be fired and imprisoned!

Posted by: BJ Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 11:32 PM
How sad that this woman is determined to destroy this fine Christian teacher. The names he is being called are absurd. I know this man, in fact I have known him his entire life and I will testify that his character is beyond reproach. It makes me sick that some people embelish facts and try to destroy peoples lives for a moment in the spotlight. This woman was not in the classroom and does not know how the text was presented. Other students in the classroom relate his presentation of material was done tactfully and they were not tramatized. Some people just like to be in the limelight and will do anything to get there. Why some people like to believe only the worst in others is a mystery to me.I would trust this teacher with my grandchildren

Posted by: Joan Location: North Augusta on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:44 PM
Why would a teacher be reading to eighth graders in the first place? Another comment referred to him as a history teacher; if that is the case, how did the story read relate to a history class. I agree he has a perversion.

Posted by: Krystal Location: Matthews on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:23 PM
WELL THIS TEACHER IS A GOOD TEACHER AND THE BEST TEACHER YOU COULD HAVE. I DONT UNDERSTAND WHY THEY WANT TO DO HIM LIKE THIS. FROM WHAT I KNOW THE STORY WOULDN'T AFFEND ANYBODY AND THE GIRL IS JUST TRYING TO PUT ON A SHOW AND GET AN LITTLE ATTENTION. WELL FOR ONE THING FROM WHAT I KNOW: HE'S A GREAT TEACHER, A GOOD FATHER, AND HE IS A NICE RESPONSIBLE MAN. I THINK WITHOUTH HIM THE CHILDREN WOULD NOT LEARN THE IMPORTANT THINGS THEY WOULD NEED TO LEAR. SO ALL IM JUST SAYING BRING HIM BACK BECAUSE HE DOESN'T AFFEND ANYONE IN ANY KIND OF WAY AND HE IS A GOOD PERSON. I THINK THE GIRL AND HER MOTHER NEED TO STOP WHAT THEY ARE DOING BECAUSE IT DOEN'T AFFEND ANYONE IN ANY KIND OF WAY. SO IF THE GIRL OF HER MOTHER HAS ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT ANYTHING I JUST SAID PLEASE CONTACT ME AT(EMAIL):krystlbyds_2007@yahoo.com

Posted by: WMS Parent Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:21 PM
I have been on the grounds at Wrens Middle School and heard way worse language from some of the students. Did he say butthole? I don't know, but sunday school compared to what I heard from some students on school grounds, also ck out some of the books in the school library. Some of you who are easily "offended" will probably have a book burning! If he read improper things to the students, then yes he needs to be punished, but I don't believe that he did.

Posted by: WMS Parent Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:14 PM
I don't know what was read, I was not there. My son is in one of this teacher's classes and has told me about some of the stories from this book. He has heard nothing innapropriate. We all warn our kids of things that idiots do, so they know what to watch out for. Seems to me this is the same thing. Ck out the accused as well as the accuser, you might be surprised at where you find the most dirt. I hear that this parent went to Louisville Middle School first to complain and found out that her daughter didn't even attend school there. she's so concerned, but does not even know which school her child attends, or where the school is located? Who enrolled the child in school? To news 12 and Jefferson Co. BOE...get all your facts before you make your final ruling in this matter please. We can't afford to lose any more of our best teachers. Remember we entrust our children's well being to the BOE also.

Posted by: Carolina Location: Everywhere on Aug 22, 2008 at 07:31 PM
Wow! I tend to sympathise with the teacher in this instance, as all I have read leads me to believe he did not do this maliciously. It is so easy these days to persecute a teacher, and ruin his/her name forever, based on the flimsiest of evidence. I have seen this happen in my own communities. I think people should think very carefully before making accusations that can destroy another's life forever. Yes, we have to be aware, as do our children, but today's atmosphere often breeds old fashioned 'witch hunts', and the accused is convicted on no more evidence or proof than the 'witches' of old. Please, all of you who call yourselves Christians, and concerned for your children, what would Jesus say, and what are your children learning from you? Maybe 'if you don't like your teacher (or parent?) make up a story and tell it to your parent (or the police) I'm NOT saying not to investigate, but simply be careful and know your facts before you throw out accusations.

Posted by: tunyetta dixon Location: stapleton on Aug 22, 2008 at 07:14 PM
dont worry about it my favorite teacher u will be back teaching in no time and that girl talking about she is scared if you might stared back teaching again u konw what that girl jasmien or whatevery her name is is acting like a 2 year old chid. im going to start me a list for he want get fire and they must dont know how many people is going to sign mines

Posted by: tunyetta dixon Location: stapleton on Aug 22, 2008 at 06:34 PM
mr mac thats who that women is talking baout he read us that book when we was in eight grade and which that was last year and now im in the 9th grade we nwvwe went and told nobody and i think cynthia should stop all the junch she is doing she shoulnt have that junk on channel 6 news or channel 12 thats how i feel because mr mac didnt do anything he cant hepl it that it was in the book i see nomone else did not tell on him and u know what if she com to my hose and try to get me to sign a paper to get him fire im going to slam the door in her face. and i dont know why mrs. well did what she did she should have ask the stundent but if u have anymore comments please it to my eamil tunyettadixon@yahoo.com

Posted by: just asking Location: augusta on Aug 22, 2008 at 06:32 PM
okay, i am a middle schooler. and dont you think that it is stranger that only ONE PERSON complained and no one else didnt. i think that she was mad at the teacher and wanted to get him fired.

Posted by: Enough Said Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 06:26 PM
The bottom line is that good literature is approved by the state's curriculm and it is presented in a literature class with a teacher who presents it in a tasteful and ethical manner. What the teacher read was garbage. There is a difference. You all can defend until the cows come home; however, the teacher in this case violated the trust of his students, their parents, his superiors, his colleagues, and his family. As an honor student, you should know that any time a teacher reads you a story and has to change the words, then that is a story that should not have been read in the first place. One day when you have children, you will understand. Please take time to read about Adolph Hitler and the control he exercised over the Germans. They knew he was wrong but they followed him straight to Hell. Don't let your blind devotion to anyone lead you down a path of destruction. Your teacher was wrong amd anyone who says differently is wrong, too.

Posted by: Concerned Citizen Location: Jefferson County on Aug 22, 2008 at 06:06 PM
I am shocked at what I am reading! How can parents, concerned citizens and other adults find this appropriate. When you send your child to school you are trusting that the school personnel will care for your child while they are in school. But certainly this man knew this was wrong since he did not get approval to read this kind of material from the school principal, or the superintendent. He read this book knowing that it was wrong. I commend this parent for coming forth, and I pray that she does not allow these comments to scare her away. I think we are sending the wrong message to this child and to other children. This child came forth looking for help, but instead we are telling her that she is crazy. How do we expect other children to come forth when something happens they feel uncomfortable with. And we are saying to this teacher, you can do what you want to our children we will stand by and let you do it!!! That is wrong. He should not be allowed to teach where there are children

Posted by: JAMES Location: WAYNESBORO on Aug 22, 2008 at 06:00 PM
WHAT IS WRONG WITH OR SYSTEM? PARENTS WISE UP, I BELIEVE THIS TEACHER IS TRYING TO TEACH THESE CHIDREN ABOUT LIFE, NOT SEXUALITY. THESE CHILDREN GET TO WATCH MORE THINGS ON TV OR INTERNET THAN THIS MAN COULD HAVE SAID OR READ IN CLASS. KEEP CHECK ON YOUR CHILDREN AT HOME, YOU MAYBE SUPRISE OR MAYBE NOT. TO THE 'BOE' PLEASE LOOK AT THIS VERY CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU MAKE A DECISION THIS CAN RUIN THIS TEACHER LIFE FOREVER. OUR CHILDREN WILL LEARN OR HEAR THINGS FROM WHO THEY SO DESIRE, BUT OUR JOB, 'PARENTS' IS TO MAKE SURE WE TEACH OUR CHILDREN THE WAY THAT WE WANT THEM TO GO. GOOD AND DEDICATED TEACHERS ARE HARD TO FIND, PLEASE THINK THIS OVER..........................

Posted by: alice marie Location: louisville on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:54 PM
I do not condone what the teacher has done. However, to the person who posted they'd "choose richmond county any day"...I guess you haven't read about Butler High and Tubman middle in today's news. I'd rather have this teacher in Jefferson County teach my children ALL day long than have to be worried about my child being caught in the middle of a food fight/ knife fight/ brawl/ whatever else!!!

Posted by: Brandi Spires Location: Keysville on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:49 PM
I'm sorry but I dont agree with this at all. The teacher in question was my 8th grade teacher and he used to read us, as in my class, that book and there was nothing as bad in that book like there is in some of the rap lyrics you can find pasted all over the internet. This was blown out of proportion and I sincerly hope that this does not affect his teaching carrear becasue before he even reads a story he asks the class if they are mature enough. In my oppinion if you are in 8th grade you should be able to handle it because you have already had a small background in Sex Education. the 8th grade is getting them ready for high school and the real world. I have a question, what are you going to do when they have to take biology and they talk about spem combining with an egg to form a zygote and so on? Are you going to get biology banned from being taught?

Posted by: Wake Up Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:49 PM
Lady you said if you wanted your child to know this kind of information you will read it to her/him. Well apparently you wanted her/him to have an education but I don't see you teaching(home schooling) leave the teachers be the job is difficult enough trying to teach and not offend and make every one happy well everybody can't be happy. If you have taught your child that good ole home training than whatever was in the book you don't have a thing to worry about. However your child and all the rest of the children has already seen the entire book on tv in some type of movie, trust me they have. JCBOE investigate and do the right thing don't keep letting our good teacher get away. And to you Ms.Complainer go walk around the track and stop your reading and eating at the same time that large book really put the thick on. lol

Posted by: Content Parent Location: Jefferson County on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:49 PM
My child was taught by this teacher in Middle School and he was a wonderful teacher. My child used to tell me that he was his favorite teacher at the school and enjoyed going to his class everyday. This thing has been blown out of proportion and should be dropped immediately before anyone else gets hurt. The teacher has been disciplined for something that he probably shouldn't have even been disciplined for, but took the punishment in the best interest of himself, the school, his family and the little girl that he alledgedly "scared". Mom, if you aren't satisfied with what the school board did, then vote in the next election if you are eligible. Until then, get over it!

Posted by: Katelyn Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:37 PM
I am an 8th grade honor student at WMS and was in the classroom when the story was read. The teacher skipped over the bad parts of the story and did not say anything offensive. He is a good teacher and I was looking forward to being in his class this year. Now because some people want to get attention I will have a substitute teacher and won't be able to learn anything. BRING MY TEACHER BACK!

Posted by: WMS student Location: Louisville on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:33 PM
I hate the fact that people would be so close minded that students can't ralk about life and sex without somebody getting suied.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Martinez, GA on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:27 PM
HMMMMMM....what about the Westside Story....guess it should be outlawed as well, my daughter was in the 6th grade when she went and saw this play, which her teacher was the leader of the "Shark Gang" from the story. But I guess I am a strange parent, I want my children exposed to things such as the stories, these books. I look at it like this, if they are aware of it and understand it correctly, then they understand what the rewards from knowing can be and what the dangers it can cause, and I would not want to imagine how they would be later in life if I didn't let them learn. Hope they don't have to read Shakespeare...they are in for a treat and then some.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Martinez, GA on Aug 22, 2008 at 05:19 PM
OMG...freakin grow up people. If you want your child to live a sheltered life, keep them at home and homeschool them. Not wanting your child learn the truth about life and the facts of life, in my book, is neglect. You are lieing to your child and depriving them of the world. Also, I know in Columbia County, Sex Education starts in the 7th grade, I guess you refused to let her take that, or what are you going to do when she has to take such class. Are you going to stop her from taking Health and P.E. in High School, cause guess what, Health has Sex Education in it and they get to watch, "The Little Sperm that Could", it is a requirement. But then again, I guess that is inappropriate for a high schooler. All I can say is I hope you have a shackles and chains to keep her and your other children on, and hopefully you don't have a TV, cause if you did, then EVERYTHING would be off the air. Grow up, get a life, and pull your child and let others learn as they should be learning!!!!!!

Posted by: Stunned Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Perhaps the writer who called the teacher a sicko and pedophile was wrong. The writer may be hiding behind the cover of anonynmnity but is not that the same thing that the teacher did??? Did he let his colleagues or superiors know about his fetish? Someone needs to be careful alright, but it is not the writer. It is the parents who had children in this man's class.

Posted by: Observer Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:48 PM
I agree, this teacher is not a "sicko or pedophile". He is a heck of a lot worse. Was he getting kicks from reading a perverted story to adolescents. I cannot believe that people find it okay for his "one mistake" to be overlooked. I will bet the farm that this was not the first time that he has read this story. That is usually how perverts work. Ask any pyschologist or any one in law enforcement. Perverts gain the trust of their victims and then move in for the kill. For kids not to tell shows that this teacher is a manipulator and a pervert. I am glad this parent came forward. Otheriwise this jerk would have continued his subtle campaign of "gay" indoctrination. Yes, you righteous people can say what you want, but this man is a sick son of a gun! I am glad my children are out of middle school, otherwise I would have a definite problem with him teaching my children!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:34 PM
To the concerned parent of Louisville, grow up and get life. Do you even know how to read. All great literature has sex and intimacy in it. Well he did make a mistakebut you know what it's ok. He has been hit by several stones and what is in YOUR closet. I just like I thought you've been hit by a stone also. Stop passing judgement.

Posted by: Fed Up Location: Keysville on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:34 PM
Look, the teacher or weasel in question was WRONG! He should have known better. Parents entrust their children to the schools, principals, and teachers. This jerk violates that trust and you dim wits want to defend him. There is no defense for what he did. There is no excuse for what he did. He may not be a pedophile, but he sure has pedophilac tendencies..ask any reputable psychiatrist and I guarantee you will find out just why this "sicko" chose to work with children. Lay off the mother. She is simply trying to protect her child, and I, for one, say bravo to that.

Posted by: Lewis Location: Louisville on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:28 PM
Ms.Bedancourt, you can stop now. You have filled your daughters head to be afraid of a wonderful teacher. My child had that teacher and he was wonderful and great. You need to syop now. Have you ever wondered what you're doing to this man's career and life. By they way don't let your child go pass the eight grade because guess what, Shakespeare has sex in it. I guess You're going to fire all of the High School Literature teachers. Don't let your child get married because sex is in it. I guess you're going to hang her husband. What is the father of this child is saying about this incidence or did you have "sex" with a man who left you. Don't throw stones unless you are willing to get hit by one back. Everyone deserve a second chance. Give it a break and work on something else like Teen Pregnancy, MADD, etc. You wasting to much energy on a book and to brainwash your child about this teacher that's absurd. You need to grow up!

Posted by: Kevin Eng Location: tulsa on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:15 PM
loser; get a life!

Posted by: Concerned Parent Location: Louisville on Aug 22, 2008 at 03:17 PM
Mrs. Bethancourt is responding as any parent should in a situation like this. I agree with the writer who suggested that the so called Christian teacher read the story he read to his innocent students to his church family Sunday morning. The teacher does not need to return to Wrens Middle and certainly not reassigned to another school. If he didn't read the book to his son's class, why on earth was it read to other classes? I hope his dismissal papers are beig prepared. Is this teacher a pervert or a pedophile?

Posted by: me Location: where I am on Aug 22, 2008 at 03:06 PM
Some mistakes are made without malicous intent and sometime protection and concern crosses the line to persecution and slander. What the teacher read was wrong, he has been punished and is awaiting a final decision on his job. We are not his judge or jury... that should be left up to the Professional Standards Commision and God! Everyone is hurt from this, the students, the school, the community and yes the teacher and his family. His actions should not be condoned, but compassion is a virtue we all should practice a little more of. Words like "sicko", "pedophile", "easy pickings" is very dangerous to use...but I guess when you write something anonimous you feel justified and safe. Also, To question the motives of a parent just to defend someone you are friends with is just as bad. The teacher messed up and that should not be condoned by anyone but to rip another humans life apart without knowing everything is really perverse. Relishing in the misery of others is sick! God 4give us all!

Posted by: Marcell Location: Wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 02:56 PM
First of all, this teacher has been teaching children for over a decade (that's over 10 years for some of you commenters) and this is the first complaint he has received by any child or parent. Secondly, he did not read the story as it was written. He changed the words that he felt were inappropriate. Secondly, he tried to stop reading the story completely, but the kid's (including the traumatized girl in this case) begged him to continue reading it. The "story" which is actually an urban legend (some of you will have to look that one up) was three paragraphs long. Now thirdly, what should be done to this teacher? Well, the County BOE has already suspended him and will probably transfer him to another school because of the "victim's" presence. Some of you feel like he should be hung from a tree in front of the school for "reading" in a "classroom" from a "book" to his "students". When and where will it end? Now the SCLC (whatever that really is) wants to "address it"! Give me a break!

Posted by: Andrew Location: Columbia on Aug 22, 2008 at 02:51 PM
Wow... Could we be anymore ignorant? 8th grade (sadly) is becoming a time when children of this generation start experimenting with sex. More education is needed to make sure kids know the real story about sex and all its potential ugliness! Stupid religious fundamentalists and their "abstinence only" education is statistically backwards and ineffective. I have a feeling this sheltering mother fits right into this definition. Also, what is this, Nazi Germany? We might as well throw out or burn our biology text books on top of this(assuming they are not based on "intelligent design" - CREATIONISM). And then after that we can just fill our classroom with religious texts and myths about reality, all from the biased and faulty Christian perspective, despite any constitutional ramifications or rights of minorities. If I come across another fundamentalist parent who wants their children to get a Christian education in my public schools I think I'll go crazy.

Posted by: Captain Location: Waynesboro on Aug 22, 2008 at 02:36 PM
The Jefferson County SCLC is crazy because sex is in the BIBLE, and you can best believe that it is explicit. Read the Songs of Solomon. It talks about ALL types of sex. Mr. Ivery how was you conceived in this world????? And you answered "SEX" Thank you...

Posted by: Kandice Location: Augusta on Aug 22, 2008 at 02:33 PM
I've seen parents like Mrs. Bethancourt, so over protected and blows up at the littlest things. I can almost guarantee you that she allows her daughter to watch BET, MTV, and Television all together, and everything on television is sexual from the yogurt commercials to the M&M commercials. Honey get over it because if your child stay in school she's going to read Shakespeare, The Cantlberry Tales, Huck Fin, To Kill A Mockingbird, The BIBLE and Maya Angelou's works and they make references to sex. In that case turn off your Television and pull the shades because darling I would rather for her to get it in literature in school instead of in someone's bed at the age of 16 and nine months pregnant because her mother didn't want anyone to tell her about "sex".

Posted by: Brandon Location: Hephzibah on Aug 22, 2008 at 01:49 PM
Wow, okay. Get the WHOLE story first. find out what was really read. i was in 8th grade years ago, but I can tell you that as child of that age, WE ALREADY KNEW ABOUT CONDOMS, AND SEX IN GENERAL. we could give you a pamphlet speech on those kinds of things. NOT BECAUSE IT WAS TAUGHT TO US, [[ well it was taught to me in 6th grade ]] but because with todays televison, and internet , ITS EASY TO READ ABOUT THIS STUFF. interview the teacher, i just can't believe he didn't do this in his prior years of teaching, and decided HEY i'm going to read an explicit book to my 8th grade class, get real. **news 12 rocks**

Posted by: concerned parent Location: jefferson on Aug 22, 2008 at 01:31 PM
To the parent asking if the teacher read this book to his son's class last year... I have a child who was in his son's class last year(another teacher's child was also in the class last year)and he did read excerpts from the book, but not this particular passage. My child said that the passages he read to the class did not contain any sexual references. If he didn't read this story to his own child's class then obviously he knew what he was doing was inappropriate and wrong. As I read the posted comments, I could hardly believe the number of people attacking this woman and questioning her back ground. Is it so hard to believe that she is a mother trying to protect her child and other children? It doesn't take an educated person to know that what this teacher was reading aloud in class was completely inappropriate. If this teacher had read this passage to my child last year, I would not have gone on TV but I would have approached the school and the BOE and probably wanted him fired.

Posted by: Spell Check Location: Evans on Aug 22, 2008 at 01:01 PM
If that teacher taught this particular student, who is now defending him, spelling, the she probably could not remember anything from the book. Her spelling is atrocious.....but I am glad to know that this fine Christian man skipped over the "cussing". What a great teacher!!! Please stay where you are!! Don't go anywhere else where you can manipulate other children. Seems like you have done enough of that already.

Posted by: wake up Location: georgia on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:43 PM
I love the suggestion that this Christian teacher read this aloud in his church Sunday morning if this is OK to read to 8th graders.

Posted by: teacher in augusta Location: augusta on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:41 PM
If your child learned more in 5th grade sex education than this story, the school needs to be closed. I did not realize that the state of Georgia allowed anal sex to be taught in schools. Here again, you as a parent have a right to refuse your child being in a sex education class. That is the case in every public school in Georgia. These Wrens parents did not have this right. This teacher took it upon himself to do as he pleased. I have a friend in Wrens whose child is attending Wrens Middle School for the first time. She questioned her daughter about it, and she did not want to tell her mother because he might get into trouble. The teacher supposedly read a couple of line and then stopped because he might get into trouble. Of course, the students begged him to read the rest of the story. I guess he was forced to read it. Sure everyone makes mistakes, but teachers, myself included, cannot expose children to this type of literature. If he worked in our system, he would be gone!

Posted by: Bill on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:30 PM
How many children are in the class this child was in? Around 30. How many other parents are complaining? None we know of. Was this a bad judgment call on the part of the teacher? Yes. How many of us have made bad judgment calls? All of us. My child is a former student of this teacher, he was one of my child's favorite teachers. Now this one person is trying to ruin his livelihood, for this one bad call. I wonder how many bad calls Betancourt has made. Has the teacher been punished? Yes. Does she need to "leave it alone"? Yes.

Posted by: James Ivery..president, Jefferson Co chapter S.C.L.C. Location: Jefferson Co. on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:22 PM
I have not read this paticular book, but I will look into it and if this book is what that parant and others say it is, trust me! The Southern Christian Leadership Conference will address it!

Posted by: parent Location: wrens on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:14 PM
Some of you need to understand that urban legends have many versions. The version that was read to the eighth graders at WMS is from the book aired on this station. It DOES have the words in it listed in one of these entries. I questioned my child about this and he could quote parts of the story to me such as "butthole being sore" and "bloody condoms." The teacher may not have used all of the words in each class, but he did in my son's just as he did in this girl's class. If he didn't read it the same way to all of them, why not?

Posted by: Horrified Location: Augusta on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:10 PM
What kindof idiots live in Jefferson County. Get the book go to page 227-228. Read it for yourself. There is no way to claen this story up!!! I considered moving there a few years ago. As bad as it may be, give me Richmond County any day of the week!!! To say there is nothing about condoms...you obviously cannot read or you are just an idiot like the teacher who read the story!!!!

Posted by: Sharlie Stanfield Location: Jefferson Countey Hight on Aug 22, 2008 at 11:51 AM
I was a student of the teacher in question and he always sencered it and never read anything that was inapropreate and always skipped over the cussing. the teacher was the best teacher i ever had and dont beleave he should stop teaching.

Posted by: Nash Higdon Location: jefferson county high school on Aug 22, 2008 at 11:45 AM
I can assure everyone the story was not read as written. I attended his class as an 8th grader not five years ago. He's a great teacher and would never use obsenities descibed b