Cute as they are, kids can be really smelly. So you can imagine that sitting in a classroom full of them, with very little in the way of air-conditioning, could get a little overwhelming.
One exasperated elementary teacher in Buffalo, USA has taken it upon herself to address the 'odour issues' afflicting her classroom. Far from subtly making hints to parents during Parent-Teacher nights, she took a far more direct - and harsh - route.
This is the letter - that is, the URGENT NOTICE!!! - Sharon D. Perry Dunnigan sent home with each of her pre-kindergarten students.
Notice that even the children, all aged between 3 and 4, are required to read and sign the note.
According to Buffalo News, parents and members of the school board were upset by the "broad and shaming" manner in which Ms Dunnigan chose to deal with a matter concerning only a small handful of students:
“Sending that letter home to all parents is offensive and almost shows a contempt for the children,” said Samuel Radford III, president of the District Parent Coordinating Council. “As opposed to judging them, condemning them, make an effort to address the underlying problem. That would be most helpful to the parent, most helpful to the student, and most helpful to the district.”
Board members are now in talks about the most appropriate way to discipline the teacher.
Undoubtedly, Dunnigan's letter completely lacked tact and sensitivity. Noticeable hygiene problems in children might signal deeper familial welfare issues that require support from teachers and school nurses or counsellors, not condemnation and shaming.
What do you think - do educators have the right to raise matters of personal hygiene with the parents of their students?