A maths teacher from California has been placed on leave after she was filmed performing a 'Native American' dance for her students. Watch below:
As shown in the viral footage, Candice Reed of John W North High School was chanting 'SOH CAH TOA' whilst her pupils watched on in shock.
Advert
She is then seen jumping on desks and waving her arms around after running out of breath.
The Daily Mail has reported the Riverside Unified School District have said they do not condemn her behaviour while confirming an investigation has been launched now the teacher is on leave.
In a statement to the community, the school wrote: "These behaviours are completely unacceptable and an offensive depiction of the vast and expansive Native American cultures and practices.
"We are deeply committed to implementing inclusive practices and policies that honour the rich diversity of our district and the greater region.
Advert
"We will be working with our students, families, staff and community to regain your trust."
The video was originally shared on social media by Shadae Johnson, a member of the Urban Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council Member in Vancouver.
She says the footage was filmed on Tuesday by a Native American student in Reed's math class.
Advert
According to Johnson, the student started recording after several minutes of Reed 'war hooping and tomahawk chopping' because he 'felt that violence was being committed against him and he had the right to record'.
"I am sharing this video because these behaviours can no longer be swept under the rug!' she wrote.
"We need to end discrimination and violence against indigenous youth in schools! We're not in the 1960s anymore, she should know better!"
One person tweeted: "The worst thing is the teacher probably didn't even think this was disrespectful or offensive.
Advert
"Completely oblivious as the kids watch, aghast and alarmed. Oblivious, as she grew up in a cultural bubble."
Another person tweeted: "This is from Riverside, CA? I'm from there and Native from the Cahuilla Band of Indians.
"How is this happening when there are literally at least 10 Native tribes in the surrounding area. UCR (University of Ca Riverside) works with Natives in the are and she didn't know???"
Someone else tweeted: "As an educator, there is NO WAY that there is a justifiable reason for that."
Featured Image Credit: Instagram/@corn_maiden_designs