#NoMames: Six California World Language Teachers Thought It Was Funny to Dress Up With Sombreros and Fake Mustaches in Yearbook

May 22, 2019
9:28 PM

This report comes from San Diego’s CBS 8. As the report states: “Photos in the San Pasqual High School yearbook are being called racially insensitive by some. Six world language faculty members are featured in the pictures wearing sombreros and thick, fake mustaches. While the pictures were taken to be funny, a lot of people say they aren’t laughing.”

How did anyone think that this would be cool to do? In 2019? Did they not even see what happened at an Idaho elementary school last year? (Also, if you are going to be offensive, can you at least add an “ñ” to “señor” and “señora?”)

So here we go again. Teachers do stupid things. Parents react, and then there is a statement from the school’s administration:

The 2019 yearbook for San Pasqual High School, “The Golden Legend,” was released yesterday (5/20/19) to senior students. It has come to our attention it contained photos from the World Language Department that are culturally insensitive and in poor judgment. The photos are a collection of pictures taken at the beginning of the year for use as teacher ID photos. 

Administrators have discussed the issue with SPHS staff. Principal Martin Casas and his administrative team are taking precautions to ensure a similar situation does not occur in the future. 

According to Principal Casas, “San Pasqual High School takes pride in its rich history and diversity. It is our intent to use this situation as a tool to remind students, as well as staff, to remember the impacts of their words and actions. We are committed to continuing our efforts to ensure all students, families and staff feel welcome and valued.”

Wait, what? These were their teacher ID photos? When will this all end?