A math teacher at Lowell High School in San Francisco has been placed on leave following serious allegations regarding the content of his quizzes, which reportedly included fat-shaming and misogynistic questions. Tom Chan, who has dedicated two decades to teaching at the prestigious institution, has sparked outrage among parents and the community for including inappropriate material that perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
The controversy erupted when parents began voicing their concerns over specific quiz questions that referenced a “fat kid,” candy, and even suggested that girls should be rated based on their weight. One particularly egregious example from the quiz instructed students to derive a variation equation based on a girl’s weight and the amount one should spend on a date, stating: “The amount of money you spend on a date varies inversely to how much they weigh.” Such questions not only trivialize mathematical concepts but also imply a dehumanizing relationship between a person’s worth and their body weight.
Additionally, another quiz section featured a narrative problem titled “Mr. Chan vs. The Fat Kid (part 2),” in which Chan described a scenario involving a student and candy. This was followed by standard projectile motion questions, but the context itself raised eyebrows about the appropriateness of using such language in an educational setting. Parents expressed shock at the lack of previous complaints regarding Chan, considering his long tenure at the school. “It’s pretty shocking,” one parent commented, highlighting the failure of oversight in addressing these issues sooner.
Moreover, Chan’s teaching methods extend beyond the classroom into his YouTube channel, where he attempts to make math engaging through unconventional means. However, some parents have criticized this approach, arguing that it often borders on humiliation. One video, titled “Grades vs. Dignity,” featured students performing silly dances for extra credit, leading to concerns that the line between fun and degradation has been blurred. As one parent noted, “They’re buying grades from him by humiliating themselves,” suggesting that while students appeared to enjoy the antics, the underlying pressure to perform obscured their true feelings.
The San Francisco Unified School District has acknowledged the allegations and is actively investigating the situation. In a statement, they emphasized their commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students, urging them to utilize anonymous reporting systems to voice concerns about inappropriate behavior. “Our priority is ensuring students feel safe and supported in school,” the district asserted, underlining the importance of cultivating a welcoming educational atmosphere.
As the investigation unfolds, there remains uncertainty regarding the future of Chan’s employment and whether he will return to his teaching position. Principal Jan Bautista, who informed parents of Chan’s leave, has requested privacy for the teacher during this tumultuous time. The incident raises broader questions about the responsibility of educators to create a respectful and inclusive environment, particularly in an age where mental health and body image issues are increasingly prevalent among youth.
This case serves as a reminder of the critical role that educational institutions play in shaping attitudes and beliefs. It illustrates the necessity for vigilance in scrutinizing teaching materials and methods, ensuring that they promote equity and respect rather than perpetuating outdated stereotypes and harmful narratives. As schools continue to navigate these complex challenges, the voices of parents, students, and the broader community will be vital in fostering a culture that prioritizes dignity and respect for all.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
