kristen (Kristen Stevens) says...

hm, seems fishy.

November 11, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

Of course its fishy. As a matter of just plain ethics it is completely unacceptable and wrong to put someone on leave for this long without telling them why. Its just bad business....even if they are being paid. And I do have to questions how legal it is.

November 11, 2009 at 5:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Well, boo hoo. A teacher who screams and chooses favorites? You're lucky you don't get hacks like we did in school, youngster.Sometimes the hack board would have holes drilled in it to cut down on air resistance. A lesson in physics, cause and effect, and proper deportment all at the same time.

The man should know why he's on leave. Do they routinely suspend students without telling you why, and do you thing this would be fair? That concept is called quid pro quo in the mother tongue.

November 13, 2009 at 9:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mavulous (mav ulous) says...

 
So, is math one of your favorite subjects, Ms. Brown?
 
 

November 13, 2009 at 9:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

Suzy... the issue is at hand is not whether or not his suspension is justified. The topic at hand is the school district taking this action without giving him a formal reason. What you are saying may (or may not) be true...but you have to understand that at this point, it is essentially nothing more than rumor/gossip. They have an obligation to give him a reason...that is what we are discussing as being unfair.

November 14, 2009 at 12:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Ahroo (Steve Ahroo) says...

I for one, give the kid the benefit of doubt. And when I read Ryan M's response, all I thought was "another local idiot". How fitting he chose that nickname. I didn't learn anything from idiot teachers that are there just to get tenure and collect their paycheck(s) and have the state's largest union backing them. And I get the impression from Ms Brown's comments, that maybe the Waterville School District feels the same as she - that kids aren't learning anything from Mr. Zhu.

Mr. Zhu (through his attorney's direction) is playing dumb and knows exactly why he's suspended. No, he won't get any sympathy from me. He's currently being paid full wages and getting full benefits for sitting on his arse. If he were so concerned, he would find another "teaching" job.

I look forward to the next article that backs Lacy's response that "he was well liked". Well liked by who? Attorneys?

November 14, 2009 at 5:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Resident (Resi Dent) says...

The issue here is a solitary one: Zhu does not know why he is suspended. It's not about anything else; the rest is superfluous.

November 14, 2009 at 7:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Dixie (Dixie Dringman) says...

After reading Suzy Brown's comments, I have to ask, what grade is she in? With her grammatical skills, I would have to guess pre-school. No wonder Mr. Zhu is losing it. I would be too if I had to deal with such illiterate students.

November 14, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JFlynn (Terry Finn) says...

Would have to believe the investigation is being handled in a professional manner - which likely requires discretion.

Whether and under what circumstance a teacher is or isn't notified during an investigation is likley a matter of policy. HOPEFULLY the WORLD will check that out for us.

Gotta hand it to the student who commented. She calls em like she sees em which will take her far.

Kudos.

November 14, 2009 at 9:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

I think Dixie's opinion of Suzy's grammatical skills being pre-school level is a bit unfair, I would say it's about an average 5th grade level. The article states in the first sentence that Zhu is a high school teacher. IMO, most younger people do not place much importance on proper grammar and spelling. A poorly written opinion or argument does not seem to be as persuasive as a well written one with same message. Everyone has occasional typos and perfect grammar is an art, but sincere effort is appreciated and well received. I, personally, need to work on my punctuation and spelling. I'm ever so thankful for spell-check. :-) I just don't understand why so many click "post" when their screen must be glowing red.

November 14, 2009 at 10:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

"None of my teachers liked him either!"

Really? Your other teachers gossip about fellow faculty members to students? That seems rather unprofessional. Pot, meet kettle.

November 14, 2009 at 11:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

"look at the videos on youtube in his classroom called "partying at zhu's". THENNNN tell me theres no problem. You can NOT leave your students unattended!"

I did so just a few minutes ago. What I saw was a few of the same students in an almost empty classroom harmlessly jackassing around, with absolutely no indication of what time of day it was. Is Mr. Zhu not entitled to a lunch or break period? Admittedly the days that I was a high school student were long ago by your reckoning, but I vividly recall being left without adult supervision in a classroom many times. These videos encompass about 3 minutes of time on the same day, and probably are cell phone video taken in quick succession. Are you telling me that you have NEVER been left alone in a study hall, computer lab or other classroom? I wouldn't believe you for a second if you claimed that. By the time a student reaches high school they should have enough sense and basic manners to be left alone for short periods of time. Perhaps your generation is different and needs help wiping well into secondary school? Do tell.

November 15, 2009 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

How about instead of getting all hurt and taking it personally you answer a few questions that were plainly posted above.

1. Would it be fair for a student to be suspended without being told why?

2. Do you think faculty gossiping to students about a fellow employee is professional?

3. Have you never been left alone in a classroom for 3 minutes?

You came on here to try and clarify things, I assume. So far I haven't seen that. When you engage someone in discourse usually it involves a back and forth exchange of facts, ideas and opinions.

A teacher being kind of a jerk is certainly not grounds for administrative leave. Lots of teachers have poor attitudes. Frankly, if he has to deal with the kind of jackassery I saw on those videos on a daily basis, I don't blame him. Some of those kids could probably benefit from the old method of schoolhouse punishment. Sitting in the hall? Please. I also highly doubt if what transpired with that student was a simple pencil sharpening, but rather the final straw in a period long campaign of annoyance. Most of us remember doing or seeing the same thing. Difference is we didn't get some mamby-pamby velvet glove treatment.

Final word is that the man should know WHY he is effectively out of work. Problems with faculty should be contained within a personnel file. This isn't just for his protection, but for yours as a student. School districts need to be accountable for their employees actions and sweeping them under the rug by keeping the official slate blank is wrong. What if a teacher was on leave for touching children inappropriately and it wasn't put in their file? That teacher can and would move on to other schools and other kids.

November 15, 2009 at 2:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Resident (Resi Dent) says...

Suzy,

While some adults on here have lowered themselves a bit, I still do not believe the article writer took any sides regarding the reasons for Mr. Zhu's suspension. The writer is essentially questioning the legitimacy of suspending someone and not telling that person why. If you were suspended from school, you would want to know the reason why, I suspect.
.
You may be correct that Mr. Zhu has earned his suspension, and maybe you are not. I don't know about that one way or the other. That is beside the point. This article is about due process.
.
However, when speaking of maturity, I would recommend not putting your complaints about Mr. Zhu on an open forum. Besides this being fairly immature and off-topic, he is probably forced into silence because of the process being followed in Waterville. Most contracts restrict disclosure of details until an investigation is complete. Because of this, he is rendered defenseless when accusations are made against him.

November 15, 2009 at 2:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Resident (Resi Dent) says...

Actually, everyone has the right to be immature, but you are also reinforcing a stereotype of teenagers with your posts. I wish you luck in the future, and I hope you look back on this and gain something from it.
.
I am willing to bet that you would not wish to be treated in such a manner as you are treating Mr. Zhu on this message board.

November 15, 2009 at 4:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

Wow, that's a pretty harsh sentiment above there. Anyone going to "suggest removal" or are we just going to leave it there as a glaring reflection of the poster's character? I had a few horrible teachers in the past but I would never wish death upon any of them, let alone a slow and painful one. Suzy, I respect your right to advocate for yourself but the manner in which you are doing it is a great disservice to your cause.

November 15, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jethro (who cares) says...

it could be because his name sounds like a type of knife...... Jin Zhu - Gin Zhu or however it is spelled

November 15, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Nicole, I think it should stand as a testament to the type of mentality we're dealing with here. For one, your age gives you no rights that are different from the rest of us, and if that's your belief it is no wonder you have a problem with authority. Secondly, this is a privately owned forum and you have absolutely no constitutional rights of freedom of speech here. Do they offer a remedial U.S History and/or Law and Ethics course at your school? Perhaps Mr Zhu could teach it.

I'm sure the detective took you really seriously, Suzy Q. I know I am. (Insert sarcastic snort here).

November 15, 2009 at 5:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

joejams (joe jams) says...

Then my advice, Suzy, is to leave it alone now. There is no need to perpetuate the bad feelings. Thank you.

November 15, 2009 at 6:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Did someone hear something? *sound of crickets*

Oh, it must have been the person who said they were done here about 4 posts ago.

November 15, 2009 at 8:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Self abuse is a horrible thing, Suzy, but I'm glad you now see the way you are behaving in a more clear light. By the way, it's psycho, and yes you do keep ranting on, though I would leave out the expletive.

To be fair, you did say you were done.

Don't you have homework before school tomorrow, and do your parents realize that you are on the net after 10 using bad language and hoping that people die?

The youth of today...what can you do? (shrugs)

November 15, 2009 at 10:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Gator (J Bone) says...

I just got through all these posts, and I have to say "wow"! Why such harsh language directed at a kid? I know, personally, I have much more important things to do than try this hard to put a little girl in her place. Yes, Ms. Suzy has posted some immature remarks, but many of the rebuttals are no more mature, and I believe that she was simply responding to the comment in the article by Mr. Lacy, stating that Mr. Zhu was "well liked"; obviously (in her mind at least) this is not the case and she saw fit to voice an opinion. Is that not the point of this forum, for all of us? Many of us have made MUCH more inflammatory, race- or social status-based comments on here, prior to this. Attacks on other public employees (a certain East Wenatchee police officer and a few elected officials) also come to mind.

I don't live anywhere near Waterville, and don't know anyone involved, but all this bitter sentiment may be overdone, especially considering we are all taking information from one article (i.e. one source), and maybe there is more to it, that hasn't been disclosed. Just something to think about the next time we feel like beating up someone smaller than us.

November 16, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

I think you missed the worst, J Bone. Many of her posts were removed and contained foul language and a horrible sentiment about Mr. Zhu. I think if you had seen them you probably would have not expressed the above. If that's what the man is facing up there it's no wonder he's having problems.

November 16, 2009 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kaylavw (K VW) says...

His LAWYER says "I don't understand... he's so well liked" and you believe this, but you don't believe the word of a student?

November 16, 2009 at 11:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Except for the fact that you have consistently failed to prove anything. Care to try again?

kaylavw, nobody on this comment board has agreed with what him or his lawyer have stated. What most of us with critical thinking skills are taking exception to is the fact that his file contains no information that would warrant a leave, and the school district has failed to provide a reason. For all we know his leave is fully justified, but he should be made aware of why.

Sorry Suzy, I don't believe that the fact that you're 16 entitles you to be handled like a little girl. You will be a legal adult very soon and if you keep up with the horrible language, the overblown drama, and the outright disrespect toward others I see problems in your future. *Nobody* else on this board has called others "B's" "A.H's" and expressed that they hope someone dies painfully. No one else has had multiple comments removed. Learning to present your point of view in a calm and concise manner would help your cause tremendously. If as you have stated, you don't care how you come across, then why are you here? You're doing yourself a disservice and you can't hide behind your age. If you were able to act professionally with a detective you do know the difference and should be able to present your point of view more effectively.

Again, as I said before, if this is the kind of attitude Mr. Zhu was having to face he doesn't stand a chance.

November 16, 2009 at 12:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Gator (J Bone) says...

You're right, r wools, sounds like I missed some, and no one should be able to make disparaging remarks for any reason.

November 16, 2009 at 12:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Michael (Michael Michael) says...

Suzy: I enter the discussion taking no position on your maturity or Mr. Zhu's guilt or innocence. But the article mentions a racial discrimination claim filed by Zhu. Do you know what that might be about? He's been at the high school longer than you have -- could there be a reason why his work environment might be getting to him? Not that it's right to take it out on students, if that's what he did, but could that be an explanation?

Just an aside: "hate" is a strong word for a poor teacher. I had some teachers whose teaching and personal affectations I did not relate to or care for, but I don't think I ever used the word "hate." Does that word accurately describe your attitude?

November 16, 2009 at 1:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Well, why don't you enlighten us? So far all I've heard about from you about Mr Zhu is yelling and sending someone to the hall. Hardly a reason to want someone dead. Say something with substance or I for one will assume that you're just dramatic and over-reacting, as I've already seen on this comment board.

November 16, 2009 at 5:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Ahroo (Steve Ahroo) says...

If an employer asks an employee not to come to work, yet still be paid like they are at work, you better believe that employee has some inkling why (good or bad). Zhu also knows that he messed up along the line otherwise he wouldn't need an attorney to tell him not to say anything. The Waterville School District is doing the absolute correct thing by placing Zhu on administrative leave until the investigation is over - hopefully until his contract runs out. Also note in the article that there is possible litigation depending on Mr. Zhu's "satisfaction" of racial discrimination charges. Ya, I gaurantee Zhu and his lawyer know exactly why he's suspended. No matter the outcome, the lawyer wins! So r wools do us a favor, grow up. Quit trying to instigate anything from a 16 year old and leave the kid alone. If you want a battle of wits, I'll be happy to take you on away from this forum.

November 16, 2009 at 6:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hcklbery (Elijah Stan) says...

To girlfawkes (r wools)
You have succeeded only in reminding all that read your belittleing and instigative BAITING posts that a 16 year old sometimes behave less mature than an adult( A DUH ) AND that some 10 year olds NEVER seem to mature NO MATTER HOW OLD THEY GET.
TO Miss Brown.
NO one can with any semblence of validity refer an answer that trumps your firsthand experience, arrogant presumptiveness notwithstanding, Your future is YOURS, TAKE IT, OWN IT, and never EVER let anyone hold you back from your dreams again. Fly young lady, FLY.

November 16, 2009 at 7:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hcklbery (Elijah Stan) says...

The Policeman asks the Speeding driver if he knows why he was pulled over, The driver answers " Haven't a clue".
"SOUND FAMILIAR"???
Like Steve Ahroo said. " HE KNOWS "
My instinct is that he is playing possum in acting clueless to both give the impression of an unwarranted action being activated against him AND to down play the validity of student complaints by feigning an Non-worthiness of noticing the existence of any such things. The race card is merely a distraction to divert attention from the left hand (while it steals the truth) and focus attention on the right hand (while it does a jig to muddy the waters).
For better or worse: That’s MY take on it.

November 16, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

Steve and Elijah, you're both a day late and dollar short, as you missed half of this "young lady's" posts, which were neither out of the mouths of babes nor ladylike.
.
Steve, tsk tsk... "If you want a battle of wits, I'll be happy to take you on away from this forum."
.
That's like the internet equivalent of asking someone in a bar to step outside, I assume. Neither mature nor witty. If you possess the wit, use it here.
.
Suzy, your last post was what your first should have been. It was to the point and addressed your concerns as well as your stake in the matter, minus the hyperbole.
.
I still stand by my opinion that a school district sets a dangerous precedent by not putting salient details of an employees performance in their record. It is for the protection of faculty and students alike. If this involved unreported assault or sexual misconduct that teacher would just move on as has happened in the past.

November 16, 2009 at 10:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Gator (J Bone) says...

I have to agree with Elijah and Steve - seems a little fishy that Mr. Zhu is only willing to speak to the press through his lawyer. According to the article, this is not a criminal offense, it is an administrative offense (so far) within the school. Therefore, hiring a lawyer is not unreasonable, but being represented in totality by an attorney to the media seems to imply that he is, at the very least, worried about something he has done. In other words, if he truly has no idea what is going on, why not tell Ms. Schlief (the journalist) that he has no idea? Having an attorney do it is implying that he is worried about making a disparaging comment - which couldn't happen if he was actually clueless to the reason for his suspension.

Also, the World reporter did mention that Mr. Zhu's personnel file was disclosed IN PART, meaning that we don't actually know if Mr. Zhu's lawyer is telling the truth about his own ability to access the real reason for the suspension.

Having said that, I for one will now step out, since the rest is out of any of our hands, including Ms. Brown's.

November 17, 2009 at 11:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

Student "jane doe"...if you wish for the public, or anyone for that matter to take you seriously, I encourage you to learn how to interact without calling us all idiots, brainless, etc. How are your smartmouth actions any different than this teacher who you claim is supposedly so rude to his students? So...its ok for you to talk to all of us as if we are stupid...yet its not ok for him? I seriously suggest that you examine yourself, and the similarities between you and this teacher before you stick your foot this far into your mouth again. And as far as Ms. Brown is concerned...if she were willing to interact like an adult, she would be treated like one. Anyone (young or old) who chooses to display the level of immaturity that the two of you are displaying will be treated exactly as you act. You must give respect to get it. Being rude will GUARANTEED get you a backlash. I suggest you focus on finishing an actual education, while you still "know it all".

November 17, 2009 at 10:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

This comment thread is now so far off topic and contains so much immature garbage its no longer worth discussing. Ta ta, Children. (And no, that wasn't directed at the adults).

November 17, 2009 at 10:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

Sorry one last thing...has anyone contacted the Waterville school district to ask if their district code of conduct allows students to get on a public forum, commit slander (which at this point it is), and make statements about wishing death upon a teacher? At Eastmont, we would have been in deep...yeah. We actually expected our students to remain within the law. Has anyone called yet to ask about Ms. Browns illegal and defamatory conduct on this forum?

November 17, 2009 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Student (Jane Doe) says...

So students are no longer allowed to exercise our right to free speech? If Suzy wants to use foul language, that is her prerogative. Waterville School can do nothing to prevent her from speaking her mind on a public forum.

Honestly, I cannot believe how far you "adults" are going to try to prove your point. The fact is that you DO NOT live in Waterville, or go to Waterville School, so you cannot possibly know what really went on within his classroom. "Cactus," I see much immaturity on your behalf as well, so I suggest next time you point fingers, make sure your own hands are clean. You people (or most of you, anyway) are supposed to be adults! It does not matter how "immature" you find our statements to be. If you come right back at us with your own rude and juvenile comments, you really have no room to criticize.

The entire point of this article is that Jin Zhu supposedly does not have a clue why he is on PAID administrative leave, while also recieving full benefits. Waterville has a population of 1200, people, so even if the administration did not inform him of their reasons for this investigation (which they did), it would get back to him. So when he states that he has absolutely no idea why, and that he was so well liked; this is clearly a lie. He is trying to gain a sympathy vote from the public, and you people are falling right into his manipulative little trap.
Your opinions pertaining to the truth of this article honestly do not make a difference, as the facts will come out in the unbiased investigation.

November 18, 2009 at 7:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

MADGSXR (MAD GSXR) says...

You people have your hands full on this one......I think i will find another article to post on....LOL

November 18, 2009 at 7:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Snow (Maggie May) says...

I am glad the students are engaging in this dicussion. They can use it as a learning opportunity. They are emotional about this article because they lived with the abuse perpetrated on them by Mr. Zhu. They asked trusted adults in their lives for help, but it didn't come fast enough. They were screamed and yelled at, spit on, told they were lazy Americans, called stupid because they are female, forced to watch an adult kick walls, and left with no instuction so often most can't recall this teacher ever spending the entire class period in the classroom. They don't understand that this article is simply a legal move to bolster support for a law suit.

I sat in front of Mr. Zhu at a school board meeting and I can assure you he knows exactly why he is on administrative leave. His, or his attorney's, statement that he doesn't know why he was placed on leave is a lie. I truly hope he and his attorney file a suit against the district-then the truth about his classroom behavior will come out and he will never be able to get a job in public education again.

November 18, 2009 at 8:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JesseDT (Jesse Tollackson) says...

Haha wow. You guys don't inderstand anything about him... So maybe you should all just shut up?!

November 18, 2009 at 10:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

anniebear (Annie Bear) says...

This teacher may have been in the wrong. I expect every student to be treated with respect and if they are not then they have every right to seek adult guidance. I am glad you took care of the situation, but when, you the students past and present, get on a public forum and verbalize disrespect by telling people to shut up, calling them idiots because you disagree with their post, you are not warranting respect and it disvalues your claims that this man was as horrid as claimed. I am not saying you are wrong I am just trying to get you to understand that words can be as discrediting as actions. If you really want this man to go down, then be careful of what you say and how it is worded. It would be a shame if he were freed, if he is guilty, because the comments on this site were used to discredit or even worse throw out the case. Good Luck may justice prevail

November 18, 2009 at noon ( permalink | suggest removal )

JeffR (Jeff Reister) says...

Except for the fact (if true) that they didn't give Mr Zhu written notice of the reason for his suspension, it sounds like the Waterville School District is handling this situation pretty well.
.
Just out of curiosity, how old is Mr. Zhu, and is this his first teaching position since leaving college?

November 18, 2009 at 12:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JeffR (Jeff Reister) says...

Oops. I meant "paid administrative leave", not "suspension".

November 18, 2009 at 12:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

Like, wow. I am simply amazed and from this like, one thread have like, omg learned so much about the (lack of) mental caliber of those from like, waterville. You are presented with like, something and the only thing your brain can come up with is "shut up"? OMG Thank you for making it like, unnecessary to call you an idiot lolz. Your actions and words are like, case in point. I do apologize for like, attempting to engage in an intelligent conversation with young minds lolz omgh. I forgot what i was dealing with and forgot not to like, expect something worthwhile from people so immature not just by like age, but by examples. I know its easy to be like, all big and bad and badmouth me from the protection of anonymity and I guess all i have left to say is gee....ya sure got me. OMG, My pride is like, terrrribly like, wounded lol peace out ppls! ;P roflmao

November 18, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Stacy85 (stacy stanaway) says...

Wow! I don't know the entire details of this story, it seems as if no one does, however, what I can bring to this is that The Wenatchee World is not a 100% reliable source of information at times. However, from what this article states is that the school district has not informed the teacher to why he is on leave since the beginning of the school year. My responses: yes, he does have a right to know why he has been placed on leave, which I feel should have been explained to him the same day he was placed. However, that leads to my question, why is this problem only now being addressed after nearly 3 months of being placed on leave? Again, I don't know all the details in this, but, it is POSSIBLE this article is an attempt to sway the public, furthermore, it is also possible that it is not and Mr. Zhu is simply being treated unfairly. However, guilty or not, he has a right to know why he is not working. Even if he has somewhat of an idea of what accusations against him are being investigated, I feel he is taking the correct path by hiring an attorney; that decision should never lead to an assumption of guilt. As for the teenagers that choose to express their feelings, go for it. But, a word of advice from someone a bit older. You will be able to get your point across much stronger and sway people's opinions by speaking in appropriate manners. I understand that, biologically at your age, you use the more emotion controlled parts of your brain, so it may not even be possible for your to behave in such a mature manner, however, you will be respected higher in an online forum if you at least make the attempt to have constructive arguments instead of emotion controlled insulting comments. Just a tip.

November 18, 2009 at 7:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Stacy85 (stacy stanaway) says...

One last thing, as for the YouTube videos, it looks as if you kids enjoyed yourselves quite a bit in his class. Quite a different atmostphere then what you described above. Next time, instead of videotaping yourselves shaking your a*****, videotape the harsh accusations you have made.

November 18, 2009 at 7:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Cactus (Jerry Patterson) says...

You are correct, Ms. Brown. It is not appropriate for me to lash out at you with nasty attacks. My question to you is...do you feel it is any more or less fair for your group (the waterville crowd, current and former) to be on here, doing the exact same thing to everyone on this forum? Keep in mind, my post was a RESPONSE to a foot-in-mouth post WAY worse than mine that was simply flagged for being so blatantly ignorant and offensive. I know you cant read my mind or see my intentions but they were to show you first hand how being on the receiving end feels. If you wish to be treated with respect, I suggest you do YOUR part in helping to gently and appropriately steer the conversation back into a positive direction. (Im not saying you are the only one who needs to, or excluding myself so please dont be offended). I'm just saying... If YOU dont do YOUR part to maintain a positive flow...you can't expect others to. So, can we *now* all discuss this like adults?

November 18, 2009 at 9:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

Suzy, I'm not that much much MUCH older than you and I know that even at your age (and much younger) I would have constructed my written opinions in a more mature and relevant fashion. Most of us that have responded directly to your comments are just trying to advise you of the disservice that you are doing to your cause and hopefully direct you in a more effectively persuasive way to present your opinions/facts. Besides the name calling, emotional outbursts, and other inappropriate dialog, you've been entirely defensive about your insistence that Mr. Zhu is a horrible teacher and everyone hates him. It seems to me that no one in this thread has even directly argued against you and claimed that Mr. Zhu was indeed a good teacher or well liked. What were you expecting when you started posting here? Did you think that everyone would listen to your emotional and unsubstantiated ranting and rally behind you?
Maggie May and Annie Bear, I appreciated what you both had to add to the discussion.
Jerry, that last post just made me laugh. I'd call that appropriate and appreciated immaturity. :-)

November 18, 2009 at 9:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Stacy85 (stacy stanaway) says...

The videos were only about 1 minute long each, if that. So that is not any evidence to support any argument. Look, I am not trying to belittle you or how you feel towards this teacher. There were definitely teachers when I was in school that I wasn't compatible with and if the accusations above are true then it should be aired to the appropriate authorities, NOT on The Wenatchee World forum, as that could lead to slander charges if what you say is found to be untrue; slander IS illegal, by the way. So, be careful with the way you address your strong feelings towards a person. Additionally, the bottom line is, whether this guy is the worst teacher in the world, he still has rights and those include the right to know why he was placed on leave so that, in turn, he has the ability to appeal, if necessary. But, you sound like an incredibly intelligent individual who has great opportunities ahead of you, so, don't let one situation get the best of you. Continue on excelling in your education. As you go, you will come across teachers that are amazing and some that you simply do not understand, it is part of life in the educational system. Good luck on your future, I wish you the best!

November 18, 2009 at 9:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

"People who don't know him or go to school with him should have no opinion or say period."
.
Just wanted to point out that people make judgments about remote situations every day of their lives, Suzy. Surely you can't claim that you never watch the news and make a judgment based on the report.
.
"not harass little kids who are trying to stick up for something they believe in!"
.
You aren't little kids, but yes you have every right to assert your opinion based on what only you know. You are well on your way to adulthood as are your classmates who have posted.
.
Snow (Maggie May)- I'm curious why the 3 students who have posted here have not talked about ANY of this? We've heard stories of yelling and the teacher being absent but absolutely nothing about violence, sexism, assault, and destruction of property. If what you are stating is true and accurate I have a hard time believing the man didn't go to jail or there wasn't police involvement, much less that his file was positive. Sounds like the school district needs to be sued next by parents if true. Frankly I have a hard time believing that the situation was this out of hand.
.
Whatever the case this going to court will be positive because all sides of the story will be brought to record, good for everyone who has questions.

November 18, 2009 at 9:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

I apologize Suzy. I was responding to earlier posts. I had to step away from the computer a minute and then posted/

November 18, 2009 at 9:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

And I didn't know I had to ask you if I could address your comments on this forum.

November 18, 2009 at 10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Nicole (Nicole Morrison) says...

I know that one comment was directed at Jerry, but I've been following this thread and have commented from the beginning. I have refrained from commenting much to avoid even more redundancy in this thread. I apologize again for kind of singling you out, I usually try to avoid that unless it is, in my opinion, very warranted.

November 18, 2009 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Don (Don Lester) says...

Wow!
.
I am not sure why this article hasn't been locked from future comments already.

November 18, 2009 at 11:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

pruitt (Brianne Pruitt) says...

Suzy's comments have been deleted per her own request. When someone flags their own comments, even if they don't violate our use policy, we delete them out of courtesy. Though this thread will not make a whole lot of sense at this point, we do encourage you to respectfully and civilly continue the conversation.

~ Brianne Pruitt
Web Editor, The Wenatchee World

November 19, 2009 at 7:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

MADGSXR (MAD GSXR) says...

You people need to settle down...or I'm going to have to send you to time out...HAHAHAHAHAHA

November 19, 2009 at 7:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Enesvy (Nicole Villacres) says...

Suzy, when you post to a public forum, you are posting to everyone who is reading the thread. Please keep that in mind when you make pointed comments and don't be offended when people respond.
.
I am amazed how the students here demand that everyone here give them the right to speak as they want, yet are the first to scream "SHUT UP" when someone disagrees with them. As the students clearly state, we don't have any personal reference for this teacher's behavior, but neither do the students have any reference for us. So demanding that we not make assumptions goes both ways. Students, don't assume you know about us and our motivations. If you demand civility, you must also give it. Let's assume the best about each other.
.
My opinion on the article: Waterville School District should've given some kind of formal documentation/letter to the teacher as to why he was on paid leave. This would have validated the students' above statements as well as probably negated this entire article.

November 19, 2009 at 9:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

g (Fiona Merkle) says...

I'd like to note that the school district not only should have informed the teacher why there was an adverse job action taken, they are obligated to do so. It doesn't matter what the cause is, or whether he may have guessed what it is, they have to tell him, in a timely manner, normally at the time the decision was made.

On other issues- 16 year olds get a little patience and slack, but not to the point of being verbally abusive or trying to suppress others' opinions- and 16 is plenty old enough to know that, and to have the self-control to manage it. IM style off-the-top-of-your-head responses aren't appropriate everywhere.

It bears mentioning that until the students have had to deal with the stresses and responsibilities of actually being adults, they won't have a full enough understanding to assess who is and who isn't a mature or worthwhile adult. By the same token, none of ushere should try at this point, without a body of evidence before us, to speculate on the merits of the district's action or Mr. Zhu's case.

Suzy, this is a genuinely friendly suggestion- learn how to let go of your resentments, because they weigh a person down, and you have a long, hard climb ahead- you really don't need any old baggage on your back. Best wishes- I hope you achieve your dream.

November 19, 2009 at 11:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Snow (Maggie May) says...

Response to girlfawkes: If you ask each of the students who have posted here specific questions about what they have seen and experienced you will see that what I posted is true. Take a look in a law library and at RCW's. There are more pages protecting teacher's rights and behaviors than almost any other topic. You are experiencing a minute percentage of engagement compared to how many students and parents are monitoring this comment string. You may not believe this situation was that out of hand, that is your decision-I know it was that out of hand. None of these students were physically harmed, so the wheels of justice turn slowly-but they are finally turning. They have begged and pleaded for help, so the article (which seemed to support the teacher in their minds) set off an emotional explosion. Give them some time to think, let them vent a little, then you will begin to see they do communicate in a manner that we as adults can understand. Also, in response to their grammer and use of profanity-do you have teenagers? Have you ever had a teenager? For some reason these few are typing the way they talk. I don't agree with the use of profanity, but I try to look past it and realize they are young people and this is how they talk to and text each other a good majority of the time. You have baited these kids on more than one occasion. They are learning and they are trying to defend what they believe is right. Now, I am not going to "invite you outside" to clear this matter up, because it is crystal clear to everyone who has lived it, especially these kids. Stop being a bully and listen-you'll see a different side of them.

November 19, 2009 at 11:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Orphanthall (Nathan Smith) says...

Sounds like poor administration. If someone is not doing a good job, the administrator should discuss the problem and mentor them to be a better teacher.

If that was the case, why is it not in the personnel file? Either way, it would appear the administrator did not do their job and is reacting with the suspension that is either unjust or undocumented.

If it was know prior to School starting, it must have happened last School year. Why the long investigation. Why not tell the person what they are being suspended for. Are the charges being changed as the investigation continues?

Something sounds fishy.

November 19, 2009 at 1:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

girlfawkes (r wools) says...

"You may not believe this situation was that out of hand, that is your decision-I know it was that out of hand. None of these students were physically harmed, so the wheels of justice turn slowly."
.
I neither believe nor disbelieve, it is just surprising to me that none of the students posting said anything about this, and they were asked several times, pointedly. When an answer was finally given, it contained none of these details, instead stories about little help, constant absences, and yelling. There may have not been physical harm (as per your comment), but spitting on someone falls under the realm of assault, and kicking holes in walls destruction of property. Were the police ever called? If not, why not? Seriously, if someone spat on my child they would be in jail or the hospital. Why was none of this in his file? It's frankly alarming that if true the school district would not put these things in his file. That is how abusive teachers move on to different school districts and more victims.
.
"You have baited these kids on more than one occasion. They are learning and they are trying to defend what they believe is right."
.
Yes, I did and will readily admit it. These young adults are in a learning process and must be taught to exercise restraint and sense when in a stressful situation. As well, I was curious and wanted answers that only they could provide, which when pushed one of them finally did instead of the OMG SHUT uuuupppp #@$#% responses we were getting. Suzy obviously took time and effort to type out her response about why she felt Mr. Zhu should lose his teaching position at her school, a response which was level headed and made sense, and curiously contained none of the allegations you are making.
.
Are you a parent of one of these children? Were the police called? If not, WHY?

November 19, 2009 at 2:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JesseDT (Jesse Tollackson) says...

I think your all just freaking out and getting mad for no reason. Its not any of our choice if he gets the right to sue or not, its the judge's choice.

November 19, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Enesvy (Nicole Villacres) says...

I agree it is very disturbing that if this kind of behavior was going on that none if it is in the teacher's file. What the heck is wrong with the school administrators that they wouldn't put complaints into the teacher's file? Sounds like union strong-arming to me, but that still doesn't defend the fact that his files show no evidence of student or parental complaints.
.
Clearly he was liked by some students if he had "favorites." But that doesn't justify the kind of behavior the students are reporting.

November 19, 2009 at 3:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

alwysoptimistic (Stephanie Yanez) says...

BOTTOM LINE- THE SCHOOL BOARD NEEDS TO BE ACCOUNTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE. They only want attention when it's to glorify them, anything else is hogwash as far as they're concerned. If somebody really wanted something done, they would fight tooth and nail for it. If that's not happening, then why not. The school board and Mr. Zhu, both need to be more productive and get the ball rolling.

November 19, 2009 at 4:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Snow (Maggie May) says...

Response to girfawkes: I am a parent. I truly hope none of these children are mine - as I do not agree with profanity. My point in posting was to try to bring a voice of advocacy for the victims. You may carry on....I will wait for a judge's decision.

November 19, 2009 at 6:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JFlynn (Terry Finn) says...

We know the teacher is on paid administrative leave.

We know the school district’s insurance company Canfield and Associates is conducting the investigation.

It appears Mr. Lacy is handling the racial discrimination and the suspension matters for the teacher.

We don't know if Mr. Lacy is a union appointed teacher or private only.

We know the investigation may be completed by Jan 1.

We know that alleged students on this site are complaining about quality of teaching issues and not typical distractions like too much home work, not enough recess, etc.

It looks like the school district might be following some kind of protocol but no one has told us that.

Nothing else has been reported by the news outlets that I am aware.

November 19, 2009 at 6:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hcklbery (Elijah Stan) says...

Is this STILL running???

WOW !!!

November 19, 2009 at 10:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

schleif (Rachel Schleif) says...

I wrote this article, and I’d like to answer a few questions brought up in the comment thread. To answer Jeff Reister’s question, Mr. Zhu is 35 and has taught in three school districts: a summer for Concrete School District, a year for the San Juan Island School District and since 2006 at Waterville High School.
To answer Stacy Stanaway, the news was delayed as I waited more than a month for the school district to fulfill a records request for his personnel file. That file was mailed Nov. 3.
Thursday, Zhu invited me to read his entire personnel file at the Waterville District Office. I did not see any parent complaints or records of disciplinary action.
I read three evaluations, which were rated overall “satisfactory.” In all three, he was rated “satisfactory” on six of the seven criteria, and “needs improvement” in handling of student discipline and attendant problems. His last evaluation read: “He has passion for math and desires that all students understand and do well in this area. This passion and desire can sometimes lead to frustration which is not always understood by his students and can lead to conflict between he and his students.” (Ray Reid, June 3, 2009)
Zhu wrote a comment in response to the evaluation, saying “I do feel that I have had insufficient support from the school administration in disciplining students. This has led to unnecessary conflicts.”

November 20, 2009 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JesseDT (Jesse Tollackson) says...

He knows why he was fired. So everybody should just drop this whole thing.

November 20, 2009 at 10:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

alwysoptimistic (Stephanie Yanez) says...

I AM GLAD THAT MR. ZHU IS PASSIONATE ABOUT TEACHING. i HOPE THAT HE CONSIDERS HIS SHORTCOMINGS, MAKES AMMENDS, AND KEEPS AT IT. THE WORLD IS IN NEED OF PASSIONATE PEOPLE WILLING TO MANIFEST THEIR ABILITIES INTO TEACHING AND HELPING OTHERS DEVELOPE AND CULTIVATE THEIR OWN POTENTIAL. NOBODY IS PERFECT, BUT WE SHOULD ALL HAVE A GOAL. HOPEFULLY, mR. ZHU'S GOAL IS TO RESUME TEACHING AND TRANSFORM HIS FRUSTRATIONS FROM A HINDURANCE, TO A LIBERATING AND EYE-OPENING ENERGY THAT MANIFESTS INTO A SUPERB AND PASSIONATE TEACHER OF MATH WITH THE ABILITY TO VOICE HIS CONCERNS POSITIVELY. GOOD LUCK TO MR. ZHU AND HIS FUTURE STUDENTS!

November 20, 2009 at 2:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Enesvy (Nicole Villacres) says...

Ah, so there were signs there, though they were buried in performance reviews. Thanks for the update, Rachel.

November 20, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )